In China’s government, an administrative system comprises a set of work instructions and rules in the context of an organizational system. These administrative systems are designed to control all aspects of work and include elements such as organizational charts, workflows, communication processes, and decision-making; today, they are often tied to KPIs and OKRs. In line with China’s socialist economic principles, administrative systems are expected to promote high-quality, efficient work while also helping team members grow and create a pleasant work environment.

Comparative Law

The notion of the administrative system has roots in John Stuart Mills’ “The Machinery of Government,” and the Chinese language itself similarly uses a machinery metaphor (mechanism). While the UK and US gradually moved away from these metaphors and thought processes in the subsequent years, they have been emphasized in China to improve economic efficiency during the country’s transformation.

Further Reading

See our comprehensive resources on China’s Foreign Investment Law.

Translation Guide

See: 工作机制