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Designing complex organizations. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley.Grant, R. 1996. Toward a knowledge based theory of the firm

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... Yet, how managers handle this situation and what the role of technology is therein remains less well understood (Colbert et al., 2016;Nauhaus et al., 2021;Raisch & Krakowski, 2021). Second, from a conceptual perspective, the notion of cognitive capacity limitations is a widely held assumption of human cognition across many foundational as well as recent organization and management theories (DiMaggio & Powell, 1983;Galbraith, 1973;March & Simon, 1993;Weick, 1995). The widespread use of the assumption has led to its use in a variety of different ways. ...
... As we found, these key tenets have been advanced broadly in the works that laid the foundational assumptions of human behavior in the management and organization literature, specifically: The attention-based view, behavioral theory of the firm, information processing and contingency theory, as well as sensemaking (Cohen & Levinthal, 1990;Galbraith, 1973;March & Simon, 1993;Ocasio, 1997;Weick, 1979;Weick, 1995). As we will show in the following literature review, other literatures (such as, network theory, upper echelons theory, etc.) drew on these foundational works' key tenets. ...
... Along these lines, larger groups -for instance larger top management teams (Haleblian & Finkelstein, 1993;Sanders & Carpenter, 1998) -are better positioned, because they enable CEOs to delegate load. While some argue that having a group leader is likely to increase a team's vertical information processing capacity (Boone et al., 2005;Galbraith, 1973), others argue that CEO dominance inhibits this mechanism (Haleblian & Finkelstein, 1993). In particular, a team's structural characteristics facilitates its information processing capacity by shaping how information is used in the interpretive process and/or by fostering behavioral integration (Hambrick, 1994). ...
Chapter
Today's technological advances hold great promise for managers, as they unleash unprecedented amounts of information. Whether and how managers will cope with the cognitive (over)load to effectively seize these opportunities remains underexplored. Extant organizational and management research has built on the assumption of managers' cognitive capacity limitations – a key aspect of their bounded rationality. Numerous studies have relied on this assumption and have contributed to our understanding of how individuals, groups, organizations, industries, and organizational fields cope with limited cognitive capacity. Based on a review of this research, this chapter uncovers how the organizational and management scholarship has applied and complemented the foundational work. It then sheds light on recent insights from parallel disciplines, and outlines avenues for future research to develop a broadened conceptualization of cognitive capacity and to further integrate the role of modern technologies in shaping cognitive capacity and in coping with cognitive (over)load in organizations.
... Thus, we identify the first research gap: in the field of sustainable development of shipping industry, few studies look for ways and insights to address known challenges through the lens of reducing the complex uncertainty. Organizational information processing theory (OIPT) can provide unique insights to fill gaps in the current field, as it reveals how organizations can leverage information when operating in high uncertainties (Galbraith, 1973). A fundamental premise of OIPT is that organizations can improve their information-processing capabilities to reduce the complexity of tasks and compensate for the disadvantages of poor information (El Baz and Ruel, 2021;Joseph and Gaba, 2020). ...
... 2. Theory and hypothesis 2.1 Organizational information processing theory OIPT contends that firms as open systems encounter various uncertainties when executing tasks, resulting in a surge in information-processing needs (Galbraith, 1973). Therefore, organizations must possess sufficient organizational processing capacity to fulfill the increasing needs. ...
... Otherwise, there is a mismatch between needs and capabilities, which injures organizational performance and competitiveness. To maintain the "fit," Galbraith (1973) proposed that firms can either curb increasing information-processing needs by having more Fuel for sailing toward sustainable success resource slack or enhance their organizational processing capabilities by investing in vertical information systems and lateral relations. From the OIPT perspective, achieving sustainable performance can be recognized as a "task" that is complex and full of uncertainty, which can lead to a steep increase in information-processing needs. ...
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Purpose-Sailing toward sustainability is becoming the strategic focus of shipping firms. Drawing on organizational information processing theory (OIPT) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB), we investigated the impact of digital transformation (DT) on shipping firms' sustainable management performance and the boundary conditions guiding this relationship. Design/methodology/approach-The authors examined the hypotheses by employing hierarchical linear modeling on two-wave time-lagged data from 189 shipping firm employees in China. Findings-The results suggest that a shipping firm's DT is positively associated with its sustainable management performance and that the relationship is strengthened by having better cross-functional and customer coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, our three-way interaction analyses show that while injunctive norms in a shipping firm's networks can strengthen the contingency roles of both cross-functional and customer coordination mechanisms, descriptive norms alone significantly influence customer coordination. Originality/value-Drawing on organizational information processing and planned behavior theories, the present research provides new insights into leveraging DT for sailing toward sustainable success. Moreover, this study extends the current understandings of the boundary conditions of the relationship between DT and sustainable management performance by showing the two-way and three-way interaction effects of coordination mechanisms and subjective norms. The findings of the present research can be utilized as effective strategies for promoting sustainable management performance.
... We developed our conceptual framework using the organizational information processing theory (OIPT). This theory states that as open systems, firms encounter various uncertainties in performing a task and that uncertainty increases as tasks become more complex (Galbraith, 1973). Firms need to improve information processing capabilities to fulfill the surge in information processing needs to ensure the effective execution of tasks. ...
... In practice, firms often pursue close collaboration and mutual trust with their customers to enable more transparent demand information and reduce the likelihood of the bullwhip effect (Lee et al., 2004). OIPT suggests that firms could utilize integration mechanisms such as exchanging information and coordinating actions and goals to match information processing needs and capabilities (Galbraith, 1973). However, achieving this mechanism can be challenging, as it depends on a firm's supply chain power. ...
... We utilized the OIPT as the theoretical guide of our research. This theory states that firms as open systems face a surge in information processing needs when performing complex tasks in uncertain and volatile environments (Galbraith, 1973). To address task complexities, firms need to improve their information processing capabilities to achieve the "fit" between information processing needs and capabilities; otherwise, firms will fail to execute the task effectively and lose competitive advantages (Galbraith, 1973). ...
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The bullwhip effect in supply chains causes mismatches between demand and production, and the emergence of digital transformation offers a potential prominent avenue for firms to address this uncertainty. This study draws on the organizational information processing theory to investigate the impact of digital transformation on the firm-level bullwhip effect and how this relationship may be contingent on customer concentration. We empirically examined our hypotheses by using hierarchical linear modeling with multiple high-dimensional fixed effects on a large panel dataset of 2,159 listed Chinese manufacturing firms (8,540 firm–year observations) from 2016 to 2020. The results show that digital transformation significantly mitigates firms’ bullwhip effect. Moreover, customer concentration weakens the negative relationship between digital transformation and the bullwhip effect. Specifically, the negative effect of digital transformation on the bullwhip effect will be stronger in firms with a diffuse customer base. The present research findings provide important theoretical contributions to the supply chain and technology management literature and offer valuable practical implications for managers to minimize the bullwhip effect.
... IPT facilitates the exchange of information among staff, patients, and stakeholders such as government and insurance companies (Galbraith, 1973). According to IPT, effective organizational strategies should align with an organization's capacity to manage and disseminate information to hospital staff and stakeholders in order to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment and enhance organizational performance. ...
... According to the resource-based view, organizations that use TQM as a tool can improve sustainability, particularly economic sustainability, by enhancing information sharing within the organization and stakeholders (Barney, 1991). Furthermore, IPT asserts that integrating information among employees and stakeholders with total quality management in healthcare can boost patient satisfaction and sustainability performance (Galbraith, 1973;Gales et al., 1992). However, there is a research gap regarding BPI as a mediator in the association between TQM and CS. ...
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This study, drawing on a resource—based view and information processing theory as a foundation, aims to examine the influence of total quality management on corporate sustainability directly and through the mediating role of business process integration, knowledge sharing, and the moderating role of innovative culture. Data was collected from 286 managers and supervisors of selected private hospitals in Ethiopia using a structured questionnaire and convenience sampling. Data analysis is conducted using SmartPLS4. The result of this study demonstrate that total quality management significantly influences corporate sustainability, both directly and through the mediating role of knowledge sharing and business process integration. Moreover, this study found that innovative culture has a moderating role in the relationship between total quality management and corporate sustainability. However, innovative culture is not moderating the relationship between knowledge sharing and corporate sustainability. This study focuses only on private hospitals in Ethiopia and data is collected from managers and supervisors using convenience sampling technique. Therefore, the findings cannot be generalized and may not be extended to public hospitals. Further research should test the model in different socio-economic and cultural settings, as well as in public hospitals. The findings of this research have practical implications for managers and policymakers in the private healthcare sector during decision-making and strategic planning.
... IPT is a framework for assessing how businesses handle data and information flow throughout their supply chains. According to IPT, the ability of an organization to meet information processing demands with its available resources determines how effective the organization will be (Galbraith, 1973). This idea can be especially helpful when examining how Proton Malaysia's supply chain's responsiveness and efficiency are impacted by information sharing, information quality, and general information flow, all made possible by IT systems. ...
... This research broadens the scope of the firm's Resource-Based View (RBV), arguing that unique capabilities like information quality, technology, and big data analytics are key drivers of competitive advantage (Barney, 1991). Supported by the Information Processing Theory, which contends that efficiently managing information flow is essential to reduce uncertainty and increase responsiveness in volatile markets, it further emphasizes the significance of capabilities for information sharing and integration (Galbraith, 1973). The research also incorporates elements of the Dynamic Capabilities Framework, proposing that to improve performance, the supply chain's traceability and agility should dynamically interact with both internal and external uncertainty (Teece et al., 1997). ...
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This study examines the key elements that significantly impact supply chain performance in Proton Malaysia, a prominent participant in the automotive sector in Southeast Asia. The objective is to understand the impact of crucial factors on Proton's supply chain's performance, including information quality, information technology, information sharing, big data analytics capacity, supply chain integration, traceability, and agility. The study used a qualitative research methodology to examine Proton's supply chain dynamics, focussing on its strategic collaboration with Geely and the incorporation of new technology. Both primary and secondary data are utilized for analysis. The results demonstrate that Proton's focus on up-to-date information, sophisticated analysis, and robust supplier connections has greatly improved its ability to respond quickly and effectively to operational challenges and maintain its ability to recover from disruptions. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the significance of supply chain agility and integration in effectively responding to market fluctuations and reducing risks. The findings indicate that Proton must consistently engage in technology and supply chain innovation to retain its competitive advantage and successfully traverse the intricate nature of the global automobile market. These lessons apply to Proton and other manufacturing enterprises aiming to optimize their supply networks in a progressively dynamic and linked environment.
... The knowledge sphere is a major departure from the classic design approaches represented by Galbraith (1973) and echoed in the work of Lawrence and Lorsch (1967), with some arguing that K-form organizations should not at their core, at their root, be based on bureaucratic principles, that they require fundamentally different approaches, with bureaucracy operating in parallel, or shadowing, a focus on knowledge generation and implementation, much like in universities where knowledge workers are not fundamentally governed by bureaucratic procedures in their pursuit of knowledge, but in which bureaucratic procedures provide a medium of explicit knowledge, reflected in the background shading in Figure 2, for things like purchasing supplies. ...
... Information can also be viewed as the number (and perhaps kind) of messages needed to overcome uncertainty (Krippendorf, 1986). In this view, information is of value if it aids in overcoming uncertainty; traditionally a fundamental driver of design (Galbraith, 1973). ...
Article
Contemporary organizations are confronted with increasing challenges in matching their structuraldesigns to the ever increasing flood of information and to the necessity to translate this informationinto actionable knowledge represented in innovations. The progression of organizations from U-forms,or simple unitary functions represented in classic bureaucracies, to M-forms, or multidivisionalstructures with many products often manufactured in many places were both embedded in aone-to-many framework, a top-down approach. However, modern organizations need to develop deeperand deeper tacit understandings that can lead to actionable knowledge that results in innovations andunique strategic advantages. This suggests a need to describe a newly emerging organizational from –the K-form. After detailing its fundamental unit, knowledge spheres, representing the increasingunderstanding from recognition of patterns in matter and energy to information to explicit and tacitknowledge to wisdom, how these spheres interact within a knowledge cube, formed by three dimensionsof domain, access, and function is discussed. Finally, the implications for practice of this approach, theintegration problem, and the importance of visualization are examined. Â
... According to Galbraith (1973), organizations are information and communication processing systems. Information is what technology operates upon to accomplish an organization's goals. ...
Thesis
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Within the decision space that has traditionally been reserved for humans, artificial intelligence (AI) is set to take over a number of tasks. In response, human decision-makers interacting with AI systems may have difficulty forming trust around such AI-generated information. Decision-making is currently conceptualized as a constructive process of evidence accumulation. However, this constructive process may evolve differently depending on how such interactions are engineered. The purpose of this study is to investigate how trust evolves temporally through intermediate judgments on AI-provided advice. In an online experiment (N=192), trust was found to oscillate over time and it was discovered that eliciting an intermediate judgment on AI provided advice exhibited a bolstering effect. Additionally, the study revealed that participants exhibited violations of total probability that current modeling techniques are unable to capture. Therefore, an approach using quantum open system modeling, representing trust as a function of time with a single probability distribution, is shown to improve modeling trust in an AI system over traditional Markovian techniques. The results of this study should improve AI system behaviors that may help steer a human’s preference to more Bayesian optimal rationality, which is useful in time-critical decision-making scenarios in complex task environments.
... The organizational environment encompasses several aspects of a corporation, including its characteristics and assets. These elements may include staff connection structures, internal communication protocols, firm size, and the number of spare resources (Galbraith, 1973;Tushman & Nadler, 1986). The concept of organization context refers to the identification and examination of several factors that influence an organization, including its size, degree of formalization, level of centralization, complexity of management structure, communication channels, and decision-making processes (Angeles, 2014). ...
Article
The United Nations and the African Union have expressed its intention to harness the capabilities of social commerce (s-commerce) as a means to promote trade in accordance with Sustainable Development Agenda. S-commerce sustainability is linked to attainment of Ten out of the Seventeen Sustainable Development Goals. Despite its relevance very little studies have been conducted on s-commerce Approbation and sustainability with a focus on generation z in lower-middle income country context. It is against this backdrop that the current paper aims do develop a baseline structural model to encourage the Approbation and sustainability of s-commerce from the perspective of generation z by extending Technology Organization Environment (TOE) with Social Capital Theory, and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The paper utilizes quantitative research approach, explanatory design, and a survey - based questionnaire. Our hypotheses have been tested using Smart Partial Least Square (Smart-PLS) version 3.8.9 and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) techniques. Our indicative results have showed that the dimensions of TOE (Technological, Organizational, and Environmental), dimensions of TAM (Perceived Ease of Use, and Perceived Usefulness), and social trust significantly affect s-commerce Approbation. Moreover, the s-commerce Approbation mediates the relationship between its determinants and sustainability performance of small business. These results have implications on policymakers, practitioners, and academicians in fostering the creation of respectable employment opportunities, facilitating productive endeavors, nurturing entrepreneurial spirit, fostering innovation, and cultivating creativity, all in the pursuit of business sustainability. Again, the newly built model could be used to encourage the Approbation and sustainability of s-commerce from the perspective of generation z in lower middle countries where such studies largely remain fuzzy.
... The organizational context refers to the characteristics and resources of the firm, including linking structures between employees, intra-firm communication processes, firm size, and the amount of slack resources. There are several ways in which this context affects adoption and implementation decisions such as mechanisms that link internal subunits of the organization or span internal boundaries promote innovation (Galbraith, 1973). Top management can foster innovation by creating an organizational context that welcomes change and is supportive of innovations that further the firm's core mission and vision (Tushman & Nadler, 1986). ...
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Big data is one of the most popular concepts and technologies in recent years. It has brought profound influence to our work, life, and study (Liu & Zhou, 2018). There are many factors affecting the use of big data technology in university management particularly the TOE (technology, organization, and environment) factor. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the impacts of these TOE factors together with the demographic factors on the big data technology adoption. The quantitative method is applied in this study based on questionnaires which is designed in bilingual English and Chinese. The local university administrators of Yunnan Vocational College of Economy and Trade are used as population in this paper. The results obtained from the study indicate that differences in monthly income, working position, and working experiences generate differences in Big Data Technology Adoption. Based on the Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, it is found that University Technological Context, University Organizational Context, and University Environmental Context have positive impacts on Big Data Technology Adoption.
... Source: Galbraith (1973Galbraith ( , 1977. ...
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This study investigates the role of organizational information processing theory (OIPT) (Galbraith, 1974) in enhancing corporate and business decision-making within the complex and dynamic landscape of supply chain management (SCM). By conducting a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Web of Science (WoS), utilizing bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer (van Eck & Waltman, 2010) and Scimago Graphica (Hassan-Montero et al., 2022), this research aims to map the intellectual structure and evolution of OIPT in the SCM domain. The study explores the current state of OIPT application in SCM, identifies key research themes and trends, and uncovers the relationships between OIPT and other relevant theoretical frameworks. Findings reveal that OIPT has emerged as a critical lens for understanding how organizations process information to make effective SCM decisions, particularly in emerging technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain. This research contributes to the theoretical development of SCM by elucidating the mechanisms through which information processing influences supply chain performance. Furthermore, it provides practical implications for managers seeking to leverage information technology (IT) to improve decision-making and build resilient supply chains. By identifying knowledge gaps and promising research avenues, this study stimulates future research on integrating OIPT with other theoretical perspectives and exploring its application in specific SCM contexts.
... Contingency theory, rooted in organizational theory, underscores the need to tailor management approaches to suit diverse situations (Liang & Lu, 2013). Two key tenets of this theory are: (i) there is no universally optimal organizational structure or managerial method applicable to all firms, and (ii) the effectiveness of any managerial methods or organizational structures hinges on internal and external business environments and processes (Galbraith, 1973). Commonly applied to elucidate decision-making and organizational management within information systems (IS) contexts, contingency theory asserts that the alignment between technological benefits and the organization's business environment is crucial for managers when adopting technology (Liang & Lu, 2013;Reinking, 2012). ...
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In today’s dynamic business landscape, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) encounter growing challenges in achieving sustainability. Logistics capabilities and supply chain performance play a crucial role in the strategic operations of SMEs, making the adoption of digital technology increasingly vital. However, despite its acknowledged importance in logistics and supply chain management, there is a lack of detailed understanding regarding how digital technology specifically impacts the sustainability of SMEs. This gap highlights the need for focused research into its influence on logistics capabilities, supply chain performance, and overall sustainability. To address this, the study utilized an explanatory single cross-sectional survey method for data collection, employing a stratified sampling technique to draw a sample of 230 participants. The findings revealed that logistics capabilities positively and significantly influence supply chain performance and the sustainability of SMEs. Moreover, digital technology was found to positively moderate the relationship between logistics capabilities and supply chain performance, as well as the relationship between logistics capabilities and sustainability. Based on these findings, the study recommended that organizations adopt advanced data analytics tools to maximize the potential of supply chain data, implement Internet of Things (IoT) technologies for real-time monitoring and enhanced visibility, and utilize cloud-based collaboration platforms to ensure seamless communication and information sharing among supply chain partners.
... Algunas variables potencialmente pueden determinar el éxito del proceso de innovación, incluyendo la interdependencia de los componentes del sistema, su diversidad, la naturaleza del sistema formal de la administración, condiciones externas (Galbraith, 1973), tipos de poder e influencia usado para asegurar la participación (Fidler & Johnson, 1984), la cultura organizacional general y las normas hacia la innovación (Deal & Kennedy, 1982) y la apertura del sistema organizacional (Rogers, 1983). La iniciación de la innovación en la organización es más probable que ocurra en el ambiente interno donde las personas tienen fácil acceso a la información, que está permeado de límites entre las unidades organizacionales, que hay recompensas por compartir, buscar y utilizar la nueva información, que hay recompensas por tomar riesgos, aceptando y adaptándose al cambio y el alentar a los miembros de la organización a ser móviles para desarrollar contactos interpersonales (Goldhar, Bragaw, & Schwartz, 1976) Por otro la Iniciativa Nacional para la Innovación de los Estados Unidos de América en la cual se sustenta que la innovación será el factor más importante en el éxito económico en ese país a través del siglo XXI, y en el cual se establece el modelo que está formado con las siguientes variables. ...
Article
En este artículo se explican, analizan y fundamentan a las principales razones que determinan el cómo y el por qué la innovación ha sido clave para la mejora de la calidad de vida desde la Revolución Industrial. Hoy, el resultado de la innovación es un factor crucial, determinante de la competitividad y del progreso nacional. La inversión en conocimiento y activos intelectuales son la clave para la creación de valor. La innovación es también importante a la hora de ayudar a abordar los desafíos mundiales, tales como: el cambio climático y el desarrollo sostenible. Se analizan las causas y las formas en las que la globalización también ha aumentado la presión sobre los países de la OCDE para que cambien su posición en la cadena de valor y participen en un proceso ininterrumpido de ajuste e innovación. Finalmente, se explican y analizan los casos de las principales economías emergentes, concretamente a países como China e India que no son ya simplemente, productores de bajo valor añadido sino que están aumentando su presencia en la creación y la comercialización de productos, procesos y servicios innovadores (OCDE, 2007).
... Management's task is to ensure satisfactory functioning of relationships between hierarchical levels and horizontal units. This involves managing information flow to prevent overload for managers (Galbraith, 1973) while fostering connectivity (Lincoln, 1982) to enable downward command flow and upward feedback. Similarly, managing interaction between horizontal units necessitates intervention. ...
Chapter
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At the beginning of 2023, the responsibility for organizing health care, social welfare, and rescue services in Finland shifted from municipalities and joint municipal authorities to 21 wellbeing services counties. The primary aim was to strengthen the financial basis of service delivery and to guarantee equal access to health and social services. This chapter explores the interfaces between local government services and health care and social welfare services, with a particular focus on functional integration. Through social network analysis, the empirical part describes the pre-existing collaboration within service areas and the interconnections between municipal services and policy issues before the establishment of the wellbeing services counties. The results point out that a number of service chains were disrupted due to the reform, resulting in a need to re-establish viable coordination channels within municipalities; hence, the service role of the local governments has transformed from a healer of malady to a guardian of wellbeing.
... La integración de funciones es clave para evitar silos organizacionales y fomentar una mayor cohesión entre los distintos departamentos (GALBRAITH, 1973). Y el último, hace referencia a la formalización de procedimientos y a la informatización de estos, cuando sea aplicable. ...
Article
La industria metalúrgica en Rafaela enfrenta desafíos significativos relacionados con la competitividad y la integración de tecnologías digitales en sus procesos productivos. Este estudio plantea el problema de cómo las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PYMEs) del sector pueden mejorar su eficiencia y adaptarse a un entorno de mercado globalizado mediante la transformación digital. Para abordar este problema, se aplicó una metodología de autodiagnóstico exploratorio-descriptivo, que emplea cuestionarios estructurados para medir el nivel de conocimiento, integración, sistematización e innovación en áreas clave como diseño, abastecimiento, fabricación, administración y ventas. Los resultados revelan una adopción desigual de tecnologías digitales en estas empresas, con una dependencia notable de sistemas manuales en áreas críticas y una baja integración de la información entre departamentos. La solución propuesta se basa en implementar un marco de transformación digital que permita a las empresas mejorar sus procesos y fomentar una cultura de actualización tecnológica y capacitación continua. En conclusión, la transformación digital integral se presenta como un paso necesario para que las PYMEs metalúrgicas de Rafaela incrementen su competitividad, eficiencia y capacidad de adaptación en un contexto de mercado dinámico. La adopción de tecnologías avanzadas y la mejora de la integración organizacional son factores claves para el éxito de este proceso y para asegurar un crecimiento sostenible en el largo plazo.
... This relates to uncertainties on the needs of individual customers as well as on management processes installed to satisfy these needs (Flynn et al. 2016). Furthermore, OIPT argues that organisations aim for a perfect alignment (or fit) between their IPN and IPC, which, in turn, enhances organisational performance (Galbraith 1973;Tushman and Nadler 1978). ...
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In an era of rapidly evolving customer demands and technological advancements, organisations face mounting pressure to enhance their responsiveness. Digital Twins offer novel capabilities by providing comprehensive transparency on customer demands through dynamic and interactive links between real-world entities and their digital counterparts. As a result, Digital Twins have the potential to enable organisations to respond more swiftly and effectively to fluctuating customer demands across volume, process, and product dimensions. However, Digital Twins still lack empirical explorations and theoretical embedment, leading to conceptual ambiguity. Through a case study approach, the study integrates Digital Twins into the framework of Organisational Information Processing Theory (OIPT). Empirical evidence proposes that Digital Twins offer a spectrum of capabilities rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. The findings further emphasise the need for aligning Digital Twin sophistication levels with Information Processing Needs and Constraints, highlighting that the dynamic interplay between Digital Twin advancements, Information Processing Constraints, and Information Processing Capabilities creates a dynamic cycle of adaptation and optimisation. On the whole, the study presents four key implications: (1) Awareness about the versatile application areas of Digital Twins is created. (2) The positive impact of Digital Twins on volume, process, and product responsiveness is outlined. (3) The concept of Information Processing Constraints is introduced to OIPT. And (4) a dynamic cycle of aligning Digital Twin sophistication with Information Processing Capabilities and Constraints is suggested. Therefore, the study contributes not only to a deeper understanding of Digital Twins in demand management but also proposes a new dynamic fit perspective on OIPT.
... Formalization keeps information concise, thus enabling interaction or collaboration of various levels of the organization concerned with making a decision. Yet, one also has to acknowledge that not all factors can be represented in financial terms of measurement; therefore, accounting information is an imperfect representation of the problem at hand (Galbraith, 1973). ...
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Cloud accounting and technology advances have had a significant impact on the quality of accounting information systems, particularly in the hospitality industry. The integration of cloud accounting into accounting practices has enabled faster and more efficient data processing, leading to increased accuracy and improved operational performance. Furthermore, technology advances have contributed to the development of cloud-based accounting systems, which provide enhanced decision-making capabilities and contribute to higher-quality information systems. These advancements have been instrumental in promoting cost-effectiveness for firms and enhancing firm performance through digital transformation and digital leadership. This study explores the influence of cloud accounting and technological advancements on the quality of accounting information systems within the hospitality industry. With the rapid evolution of technology, cloud accounting has emerged as a transformative tool for enhancing data management and processing capabilities in various sectors. Through a quantitative data analysis, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of accounting information systems in the hospitality industry in response to cloud accounting and technological advancements. The findings of the study on the effect of cloud accounting and technology advances on the quality of accounting 45 This work is licensed under CC BY 4.0 information systems within the hospitality industry have significant contributions towards regulators as they can enhance the policy, government to improve on their decision making, as well as educators to develop curricula that focus on the importance of technology in accounting practices.
... According to Tushman and Nadler (1978), an organization can be conceptualized as an information processing system that must deal with work-related uncertainty. When a firm faces increased task uncertainty and operational complexity, it has greater information demands, which in turn necessitates rich firm resources to collect and process information (Egelhoff, 1982;Galbraith, 1973). Based on the resourcebased view developed by Barney (1991), the literature has identified digital technologies as among the most pivotal technical resources for firms to collect, transfer, and analyze information (Wade & Hulland, 2004;Luo, 2022;Peng et al., 2014). ...
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While firm digitalization has significantly shaped business conduct and performance, our understanding of how it affects firms’ engagement with social issues such as poverty alleviation remains underdeveloped. Drawing on information processing theory, we propose that digitalization empowers firms to undertake poverty alleviation responsibilities by enhancing their information processing capabilities. We further develop an integrative framework that highlights the synergetic effects between institutional pressures and firm capability portfolios. We argue that the positive impact of firm digitalization is stronger when institutional pressures are presented (i.e., government intervention and state ownership) and when firms possess complementary capabilities (i.e., innovation capability and operational flexibility). The results of our analysis of 2015–2020 panel data on Chinese listed firms provide strong support for our hypotheses. Overall, this study provides a capability-based view for the poverty alleviation research and informs policymakers a fresh new way to foster firms’ engagement in poverty alleviation.
... In the past, organizational control scholars-particularly, scholars of organizational design (Galbraith, 1973(Galbraith, , 1974)-have theorized the use of intraorganizational boundaries as a salience map that shows where people should focus their attention and where they should not, much as neuroscientists have explored the brain's use of a salience map to automatically prioritize one stimulus over another (Koch & Ullman, 1985;Zelinsky & Bisley, 2015). Now that organizations have become flatter and interactions more fluid, some of the benefits of boundary permeability stem from requiring individuals to consider the determinants of social salience in their particular context, rather than having them rely across the board on organizationally imposed boundaries (which is often easier to do but may not direct attention in the most precise, useful ways), However, boundary permeability is also a major source of misalignment around reciprocity. ...
Article
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As rapid organizational and technological change makes boundaries within workplaces more permeable, employees are gaining unprecedented access to new people and information. This both increases opportunities for collaboration and heightens the risk of attention overload. While scholars have investigated overload with respect to “what” employees attend to, little research has examined the challenges concerning “whom” to attend to, resulting in ambiguity that can undermine collaborative relationships. In this paper, we integrate and advance insights from organizational control and selective-attention research, building on those macro- and micro-level theories to better conceptualize collective attention when the potential target is a colleague (human) rather than information (nonhuman)—which we conceptualize as relational attention, i.e., attention-to-whom. Further, we propose a separate, meso-level theory of transactive control of relational attention, building on concepts of transactive behavior from other fields. By exploring how such transactive control works, we begin to define the conditions organizations need to cultivate—regarding mutually transparent availability, synchronous attentional allocation, and reciprocal attentional allocation—to reduce relational overload without sacrificing productive work relationships or other benefits of more permeable internal boundaries. In addition to shedding light on underexamined attention problems in the workplace, this model contributes to future research by forging multi-level connections between individual meta-attention, transactive control over relational attention, and more traditional forms of organizational control.
... 조직적 요인으로 혁신기술의 채택과 구현을 결 정하기 위해서는 다양한 접근이 가능하다. 먼저 조직 내부의 작은 단위 또는 경계를 연결하는 공 식, 비공식 연결 구조를 통한 혁신의 촉진이며(Galbraith, 1973;Tushman & Nadler, 1986), 이것 은 다른 부서와 또는 다른 가치사슬의 파트너와 공식·비공식적으로 연결된 부서와 팀, 그리고 직 원들을 서로 연결하는 것이다. 선행연구에서 관계성 확인을 위해, 조직구조에 관한 연구를 많이 수행하였는데 혁신의 채택은 유기적이고 분산된 조직구조 형태와 관련성이 높 다는 사실을 확인하였다(Burns & Stacker, 1994; Daft & Becker, 1978). ...
... Uncertainty is the decision-making in an incomplete situation. Indeed, the difference between needed data and available data to perform a task is called uncertainty (Galbraith 1973). Epistemic and randomness are two kinds of uncertainty in parameters, generally. ...
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Biofuel has gained significant attention as a potential source to meet fuel demands instead of fossil fuel. The price of biofuel and alternative fuel have a considerable impact on biofuel demand. Thus, it is important to design a biofuel supply chain network that incorporates the biofuel price into an elastic demand. More precisely, a variable demand, including customer importance level (to the environment), biofuel price, and substituted fuel price, is considered in this research. Furthermore, this research presents a bi-objective mixed-integer quadratic formulation that aims to maximize the total profit of the supply chain and carbon absorption in harvesting areas. The problem is solved by the ε-constraint and lagrangian relaxation methods due to its complexity. Moreover, substituted fuel price uncertainty is addressed by two-stage stochastic programming. Finally, a real case study utilizing the data envelopment analysis approach is applied to assess the efficiency and currency of the addressed model. Several consequences are illustrated in the case study, such as rich areas for exporting algae, suggesting hub locations for biofuel production, etc.
... Consequently, avoiding the 'one size fits all' approach is critical when an organization proposes a new structure that involves AHPs (Braithwaite et al. 2006;Law and Boyce 2003). This is the basic premise of organizational design theory which recognizes that there is not just one most suitable solution for organizing and that different organizations are not equally effective or efficient (Galbraith 1973;Burton and Obel 2018). ...
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To manage the challenges associated with increasing costs and demand for healthcare, administrators often propose a re-structure of the workforce to gain more efficiencies. However, this can have detrimental impacts on professions such as allied health if the uniqueness of this workforce is not taken into consideration before, during and after re-structuring. In the dynamic setting of public hospital bed-based services, allied health is highly complex, consisting of diverse professionals (e.g., audiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, pharmacy, dietetics, social work, and speech pathology), each requiring different technical expertise, training pathways, professional governance, and accountability. This case study evaluates the outcomes of a re-structure of allied health professionals working in bed-based services who transitioned from a matrix to a centralized structure of service delivery. Qualitative data were collected in a survey across three years to gain the perceptions from allied health staff about the impacts of the new structure. The results demonstrated that a centralized profession-based structure with single points of accountability was superior to a matrix structure in this context. The benefits identified included improved governance, administration efficiencies and cost-savings gained by having the budget and professional management aligned. This resulted in improved workforce planning and flexibility that delivered care to patients based on clinical priority. Further benefits included professional skills training pathways and succession planning across clinical specialties which enhanced career opportunities, all of which improved wellbeing and morale. These findings add to the sparse research pertaining to the components (structural, human and systems) to consider when incorporating allied health professionals in a proposed organizational design and the contingencies they require to operate successfully within certain contexts.
... Where organization design is understood as fixed structure, with a contingency fit with the environment ( Van de Ven, Delbecq and Koenig, 1976;Argote, 1982). Yet, in situations of uncertainty, this perspective also argues to move away from structures and focus more on assessing the changing situation (Galbraith, 1973(Galbraith, , 1977Lawrence and Lorsch, 1967;March and Simon, 1958;Mohr, 1971;Thompson, 1967). We thus see business model innovation as a special case where the situation changing, and actors need to re-design aspects of the organization during business model innovation. ...
... However, there are also opportunities to integrate and extend the current IB theories. For instance, scholars could draw upon insights from the information processing theory (Galbraith, 1973;Tushman & Nadler, 1978) and complex adaptive systems theory (Anderson, 1999;Nicolis & Prigogine, 1989), and combine these with internalisation theory to enable a clearer understanding of the organising logics of firms and the governance issues arising from operating in the Metaverse environment. ...
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Recent advances in technology (e.g., the Internet of Things, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Cloud Services, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain), the shift towards digital products, and the increased use of digitalisation by firms have enhanced consumers’ experience and transformed how companies operate, create products/services, and offer value to multiple stakeholders on a global scale. These technological innovations have led to the phenomenon known as the Metaverse. The Metaverse does not refer to any one type of technology but is a broad (and often speculative) shift in how we interact with different technologies in the same space. In the context of International Business (IB), the recent emergence of Metaverse appears to make geographical, sectoral, and operational barriers less relevant, raising complex questions about how current IB theories can explain the world-spanning, sectorally fluid, and centrifugal behaviour of firms in the era of digital globalisation. In this paper, we obtain a critical understanding of the important opportunities and challenges that the Metaverse and the fluidity of digital technologies bring to the IB field. Specifically, we discuss how traditional theories can be effectively utilised to explain firms’ internationalisation, and adapted to reflect the new technological era. We propose a framework for new approaches to IB research to help advance research on Metaverse and IB, which can provide important opportunities for future work in this field.
... Teori keagenan juga memiliki kemiripan dengan pendekatan pemrosesan informasi pada teori kontinjensi (Chandler,1962 ;Galbraith, 1973 ;Lawrence, dan Lorsch, 1967). Keduanya mengasumsikan bahwa individu adalah rasional yang terbatas dan informasi didistribusikan secara asimetris ke seluruh organisasi. ...
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Agency Theory Has Been used by researchers in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, political science, organizational behavior, and sociology. However, this theory is still surrounded by controversy. The Purpose Of This study is to describe the contribution of agency theory to organizations with a positivist and principal-agent approach. This research method uses literature studies. The results of this study are agency theory giving two contributions specifically to organizational thinking. The first is the treatment of information. Organizations can intervene in information systems with the aim of controlling agent opportunism. The second is the risk implication. The organization is assumed to have uncertainty in the future. Results uncertainty combined with differences in willingness to accept risk will affect the contract between the principal and the agent. The idea of agency theory of risk, outcome uncertainty, incentives, and information systems is a new contribution to organizational thinking, and empirical evidence supports theory, especially when associated with complementary theoretical perspectives
... Job rotation is found to be valuable whenever firm-specific skills are needed to provide an incentive to organizations (Jerris, 1999). Galbraith (1973) describes that social capital theory is useful to reduce uncertainty and take actions whenever organizations need to provide job training to boost up performance. In terms of learning systems, this theory is vital in exchanging information flow within the organization. ...
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This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of social capital-based-on-the-job training practices behind developing managerial skills in organizations. Given the fact that there is paucity in prior research to use social capital as a crucial theoretical lens involving structural, relational and cognitive dimensions and show how they influence on the job training practices that enhance material skills in organizations. Hence, empirical data was collected using in-depth interviews with semi-structured questions from 12 managers of three telecommunication MNCs in Bangladesh. We found that relational and cognitive dimensions of social capital were the basis for enhancing managerial skills in organizations. We employed qualitative investigation with cross case analysis over homogeneous group structure at the upper and mid managerial echelons to identify level of effectiveness generated by social capital based on the job training that facilitate managerial skills development rather than structured training & development process. Therefore, the paper unveils the important theoretical findings and managerial implications. First, our findings revealed that on the job training was essentially designed for homogenous groups to develop managerial skills based upon the trust, obligations and identification of relational as well as shared narratives, codes & languages of cognitive dimensions. Second, social capital dimensions enormously engage on the job training for developing managerial skills set in terms of Up-skilling pro-activities, change handling skills, technology application skills, pressure management skills, oral & written communication and team player ability required for organizations to attain growth. From the managerial viewpoint, by facilitating social capital-based on the job training, organizations can obtain sustained competitive advantage and create value for themselves in the long run.
... Basically, mediation is effective in terms of cost and time due to the lesser consumption and flexibility of time and cost compared to other dispute resolution methods. This result is consistent with other studies [19], [34], [35]. Even though the mediation environment is amicable and it is an interest-based method, the parties' relationship is rarely maintained as before the disputes arise or enhanced which is in contrast to the literature reviews [22], [35], the parties normally remain as opponents even settlement is reached since they are already in fighting mode before mediation. ...
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Disputes are inherent and inevitable in every construction project. Disputes should be resolved efficiently and effectively to minimise the negative impacts on the project and parties involved. Mediation is a wise choice in resolving construction disputes compared to litigation due to its benefits. However, the utilisation of mediation in the Malaysian construction industry is still low. This may be mainly due to the confidence issue of the construction stakeholders in mediation. The mediation styles that are mainly used in Malaysia are facilitative and evaluative. Both styles are different in the intervention extent of the mediator and thus their suitability and effectiveness in settling construction disputes are different. This paper intends to identify the types of disputes that are suitable for facilitative and evaluative mediation styles in construction and to determine the effectiveness of dispute settlement using facilitative and evaluative mediation styles in construction. The data is collected through qualitative research methods through multiple case studies via semi-structured interviews. The data is analysed by using content analysis. The finding shows that parties are more confident adopting evaluative mediation for settling construction disputes that involve contractual, technical, and tort or negligence disputes compared to facilitative mediation. Evaluative mediation is found to be more satisfactory than facilitative mediation in the aspects of time, cost, parties’ relationship, and settlement or outcome in the settlement of construction disputes. This paper informs the construction players in considering which mediation styles for settling their disputes amicably, efficiently, and effectively.
... Without clear lines of authority and centralized control mechanisms, decentralized organizations may struggle to align individual efforts with organizational goals and strategies . Inconsistencies in decision-making processes and communication breakdowns can hinder effective collaboration and resource allocation, leading to inefficiencies and suboptimal outcomes (Galbraith, 1973). ...
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Purpose: This research explores the intersection of financial reporting and social responsibility by integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics into corporate financial reports. It aims to assess how sustainability reporting frameworks impact transparency and stakeholder engagement in the corporate sector. Research Design and Methodology: Utilizing a systematic literature review and interpretive analysis, this study examines existing theoretical and empirical literature to understand the evolution of financial reporting frameworks towards incorporating social responsibility. An interpretivist approach through thematic analysis identifies key patterns and insights. Findings and Discussion: The results show a significant paradigm shift in financial reporting, with an increasing inclusion of ESG metrics alongside traditional financial information. This change is driven by regulatory requirements and stakeholder demand, focusing on enhanced transparency and accountability. Challenges like greenwashing and the authenticity of social responsibility claims persist, affecting standardization and data assurance. Implications: The findings emphasize the need for more robust, standardized reporting frameworks to boost the credibility and comparability of sustainability reports. Highlighting corporate accountability, the study suggests that merging financial reporting with social responsibility is vital for future research, especially regarding its impact on corporate reputation and stakeholder relations.
... To some extent, the existence of slack resources can alter the acceptability of decisionmaking standards and increase the tolerance for risks associated with these initiatives. It also enables organizations to better cope with uncertainties that arise during the digitalization and greenization process (Thompson, 1967;Galbraith, 1973). Ultimately, slack resources enhance organizational flexibility and may weaken the negative relationship between digital transformation and investments in greening initiatives. ...
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In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the importance of the coordinated development of digitalization and greenization. However, the existing research lacks a systematic framework for understanding the relationship between different dimensions of digital transformation and various strategies of green innovation. Furthermore, the role of different types of slack resources in this relationship has been largely overlooked. This paper aims to address these gaps by examining the impact of digital transformation on corporate greenization and the moderating role of organizational slack from a heterogeneity perspective. To achieve this, we differentiate digital transformation into two dimensions: breadth and depth. Similarly, corporate greenization is divided into input and output. Additionally, we distinguish between absorbed and unabsorbed slack resources. We empirically test our research hypotheses using data from Chinese A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2020. Our findings reveal the following insights: 1) The breadth and depth of digital transformation positively influence corporate greenization outputs, while negatively affecting greenization inputs. 2) The depth of digital transformation has a stronger impact on both greenization input and output compared to its breadth. 3) Absorbed slack resources and unabsorbed slack resources not only act as negative moderators in the relationship between digital transformation and greenization inputs but also weaken the positive impact of digital transformation on greenization outputs. 4) Absorbed slack resources exhibit a stronger moderating effect than unabsorbed slack resources. This paper contributes to the literature by shedding light on the differential effects of different dimensions of digital transformation on various types of greenization, considering the role of slack resources. Moreover, it provides practical implications for effectively advancing digitalization and greenization in Chinese enterprises.
... That way, uniquely connected database disposes all the information within the ERP system ( Figure 1). The theoretical basis for the implementation of ERP is found in the organizational information processing theory (OIPT), introduced by Galbraith (1973). It simply assumes organizations must resolve uncertainties in order to thrive. ...
Conference Paper
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The introduction of information and communication technologies (ICT) in organizations is a financially, time wise and operationally demanding process. We examine the factors that affect the implementation of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems in organizations, as well as the specifics of its implementation in the context of a public institution. We describe the context for ERP introduction and outline the process of ERP implementation. Furthermore, we identify the important organizational and project determinants as well as the critical success factors that influenced the implementation of EPR in the public institution. For the purposes of the used case study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees involved in the implementation of the ERP system, and documents related to the implementation were analyzed. Finally, problems concerning the implementation of ERP were identified and analyzed, and recommendations were made in order to alleviate obstacles and increase the success of the implementation of ERP systems.
... Instead, organizations should formulate suitable managerial strategies by considering the specific circumstances and conditions they encounter (Omalaja et al., 2011). While there is consensus that there is no universally optimal approach to Alharbi, I. B. (2024) STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW PAPER organizational management (Galbraith, 1973;Ginsberg & Venkatraman, 1985), certain scholars have underscored the significance of the alignment between an organization and its external and internal surroundings (Chandler, 1962;Peteraf & Reed, 2007). Hence, according to contingency theory, it is inferred that there is no singular approach to effectively managing businesses. ...
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Purpose: This paper aims to shed light on the evolution of strategic management over time, including definitions, supporting theories, tools, importance, and application in various business settings, and highlight the challenges and future trends of strategic management. Theoretical Framework: In the available studies, various researchers examine SM utilization. Others have established tools and techniques, while others have contributed to their definition and classification, or investigated which SMs are in use. However, academics and practitioners seldom debate strategic management literature in depth. Gunn and Williams (2007) noted that there is a dearth of papers concerning strategic management. More must be realized about Strategic management. Design/Methodology/Approach: This paper employs a systematic review design, also known as an overview, which is a comprehensive synthesis of primary research studies. These approaches are utilized to identify, compile, critically, and synthesize all pertinent issues about the subject (Cipriani & Geddes, 2003). Findings: Companies that aim to achieve success and remain competitive over the long term must utilize strategic management, which provides organizations with a framework for making decisions, maintaining consistency and cohesion, boosting productivity and flexibility, and promoting teamwork. Therefore, strategists should have a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of strategic management, including the concepts, theories, and tools that could help achieve strategic goals. Research, Practical & Social Implications: This paper contributes to additional evidence for those interested in strategic management scholars or managers to pay more attention to the tools and theories, that could be improving their organizations. In addition, this study complements the systematic literature review documents related to the content of SM. Moreover, Future research could be extended or discriminate between various types of tools and theories that could apply to strategic management. It could also investigate additional on the changing that facing strategic management. Originality/Value: This study contributes to filling the gap in the dearth of studies in the strategic management field. The study also provides insights into the definitions, supporting theories, tools, importance, and application in various business settings, and highlights the challenges and future trends of strategic management.
... Teamwork encompasses a set of tasks that contribute to project priorities and benefits (Kazanjian et al., 2000) and enhances the required cooperation through information exchange, knowledge sharing, and dispute eradication among the project team members (Galbraith, 1973). Teamwork performed by intuitive, experienced, and compatible team members enhances project value (Camilleri, 2011), and interdependencies among team members positively influence project value (Hoegl et al., 2004). ...
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This study aimed to examine how information technology (IT) tools affect the value of construction projects in Pakistan, considering the roles of teamwork and support from top management. Based on theories from previous research, a model was created to explain these relationships. To test this model, data was collected from 130 participants involved in Pakistani construction projects through a survey. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method was used to analyze the data. The findings showed that IT tools have a positive effect on both the value of projects and teamwork. Additionally, teamwork enhances the value of projects and serves as a connecting factor between IT tools and project value. Top management support also plays a crucial role by strengthening the positive effect of teamwork in this relationship. This research contributes to both theory and practice. Theoretically, it offers a new model and improves project management strategies to increase project value. Practically, it assists those involved in managing construction projects, including project managers, contractors, and policymakers, in planning and executing their projects more effectively and achieving better results.
... First, we analyzed the mechanism of DT's positive influence on TFP based on information processing theory. Information processing theory emphasizes that firms should improve their ability to collect and analyze information to resolve the uncertainty arising from the production and operation process and improve decision-making capability (Galbraith, 1973;Srinivasan & Swink, 2018). In this study, DT enhances the efficiency of information processing in firms and improves decision-making capability to tackle uncertainty and exception scenarios, improving TFP. ...
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To examine the productivity paradox in the digital era, we explore the impact of digital transformation (DT) on total factor productivity (TFP). Based on a large sample of Chinese manufacturing firms, this study conducts a machine learning approach to examine the effects of DT on TFP at the strategy, technology, and application levels. The results indicate that blockchain, DT strategy, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, DT application, and big data, in ascending order of importance, positively affect TFP. Overall, this study enriches DT literature by verifying the impact of DT indexes on TFP and helps companies make decisions when undertaking DT implementation.
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The digital era has reshaped organizational landscapes, heightening the demand for flexibility and collaboration as key strategic differentiators and driving the adoption of horizontal organizational architectures, such as adhocratic systems, networks, and business ecosystems. These decentralized configurations reject centralization, rendering traditional "entity-centric" leadership models ineffective and calling for novel approaches to managing organizational dynamics. This study examines the implications of these structural shifts across micro (individual), meso (group and intra-organizational), and macro (societal and interorganizational) levels, identifying key elements such as trust, innovation, and digital transformation that drive effectiveness in such environments. The research introduces a conceptual framework that integrates the Standard Model of Organizational Dynamics into horizontal architectures, highlighting the interplay of critical elements and their alignment across levels. This framework provides a cohesive system for fostering flexibility, collaboration, and innovation, equipping organizations to navigate the complexities of decentralized, digitally interconnected ecosystems. The study offers significant academic contributions by advancing leadership studies and organizational dynamics discourse, challenging traditional paradigms, and proposing alternative models suited to the demands of the digital age. Practically, the findings deliver actionable insights for managers and leaders, offering strategies to enhance organizational agility, empower distributed teams, and sustain competitive advantage. By bridging theoretical innovation with practical application, this study serves as a comprehensive roadmap for organizations striving to thrive in an era of constant change and complexity, contributing to the broader reimagining of leadership and management in the 21st century.
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In an increasingly volatile and uncertain business environment, ensuring financial sustainability is crucial for organizations, particularly in sectors such as sugar manufacturing, which face challenges such as price volatility, government regulations, and socio-economic factors. This study investigates the impact of business continuity management (BCM) factors on the financial sustainability of sugar manufacturers in Lagos State, Nigeria, focusing on BUA Sugar Refinery Ltd, Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC, and Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc. The study examines how strategic planning, agile responses, and leadership influence organizational resilience and long-term performance. The research adopted a crosssectional survey research design, targeting 919 employees from the selected companies, with a final sample of 326 participants determined using Raosoft's sample size calculator. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire validated for reliability and construct validity. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to test the hypotheses. The findings reveal that BCM factors significantly and positively affect financial sustainability (R 2 = 0.452, F(1,277)= 228.570, p= 0.000). Eco-efficiency also had a positive and significant moderating effect on the relationship between BCM factors and sustainability of sugar manufacturers in Lagos State, Nigeria (ΔR2 = 0.010, ΔF = 7.230, P= 0.008).In conclusion, the study demonstrates that while BCM factors play a crucial role in enhancing the financial sustainability of sugar manufacturers, the moderating effect of ecoefficiency is significant. The study recommends that sugar manufacturers strengthen their BCM practices, particularly in strategic planning and leadership, to improve resilience. Additionally, while eco-efficiency contributes to sustainability, its role as a moderator should be considered within the broader context of organizational strategies. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of BCM practices and eco-efficiency in the context of the Nigerian sugar manufacturing industry, providing valuable insights for businesses aiming to improve their resilience and long-term viability
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In a world undergoing rapid change, the effective use of strategic alliances is important for a company to gain a competitive advantage. While previous research has mentioned the importance of understanding the authority and responsibilities of a successful alliance manager, few studies have investigated this topic using systematically gathered real-world data. This study aims to determine the kind of authority and responsibilities an alliance manager has in successful sustainability alliance projects. These generally require cooperation with players in heterogeneous sectors. An analytical framework was developed to examine sustainability alliance cases. Findings reveal that alliance managers at companies with excellent sustainability performance operate in an environment in which psychological safety is ensured. This enables them to autonomously develop emergent activities inside and outside the organization and have greater influence over alliance projects than the authority granted to them. This study suggests that it is essential for an organization to have a management philosophy based on sustainability as a standard for making value judgments. The communication of this philosophy contributes to the psychological safety of staff and thus their initiative taking in boundary spanning.
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งานวิจัยนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อศึกษาอิทธิพลของความสามารถในการปรับตัวและความคิดสร้างสรรค์ขององค์กรที่มีต่อนวัตกรรมผลิตภัณฑ์ โดยการวิจัยเชิงปริมาณนี้ใช้แบบสอบถามรวบรวมข้อมูลจากกลุ่มตัวอย่างซึ่งเป็นผู้ประกอบการวิสาหกิจขนาดกลางและขนาดย่อม กลุ่มผู้ผลิตอาหารและเครื่องดื่ม จำนวน 256 ราย สถิติที่ใช้ในการวิเคราะห์ข้อมูล ได้แก่ การวิเคราะห์เชิงพรรณนา และการวิเคราะห์แบบจำลองสมการโครงสร้าง ผลการวิจัยพบว่า ความสามารถในการปรับตัวมีอิทธิพลทางตรงต่อความคิดสร้างสรรค์ขององค์กร โดยมีค่าสัมประสิทธิ์เท่ากับ 0.786 (p-value < 0.001) ความสามารถในการปรับตัวมีอิทธิพลทางตรงและทางอ้อมต่อนวัตกรรมผลิตภัณฑ์ โดยมีค่าสัมประสิทธิ์เท่ากับ 0.377 และ 0.216 (p-value < 0.001) ความคิดสร้างสรรค์ขององค์กรมีอิทธิพลทางตรงต่อนวัตกรรมผลิตภัณฑ์ โดยมีค่าสัมประสิทธิ์เท่ากับ 0.275 (p-value < 0.05) แบบจำลองที่พัฒนาขึ้นมีความสอดคล้องกลมกลืนกับข้อมูลเชิงประจักษ์ โดยมีค่า X2/d.f. = 2.471, GFI = 0.833, IFI = 0.915, TLI = 0.900, CFI = 0.914, RMSEA = 0.076 ผลที่ได้จากการวิจัยนี้เป็นแนวทางสำหรับ SMEs ในการกำหนดแผนกลยุทธ์และการสร้างสภาพแวดล้อมที่เอื้อต่อการพัฒนาความสามารถในการปรับตัวและความคิดสร้างสรรค์เชิงนวัตกรรม
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This paper aims to delve into the mechanisms through which major engineering projects foster fundamental theoretical breakthroughs and original innovations, shedding light on their pivotal role in propelling a nation’s high-quality development and overall technological prowess. By examining the 600 MW supercritical circulating fluidized bed boiler demonstration project, the study seeks to illuminate the essential contributions of major engineering endeavors in technological progress and multidisciplinary collaboration, thereby offering a profound understanding of the innovation processes and evolutionary dynamics within complex systems. Adopting a complex systems perspective, this study employs longitudinal case study methods to trace the evolution of China’s circulating fluidized bed boiler technology from a position of “follower” to “competitor” and ultimately to “leader” over a period of 33 years. The research involved collecting and meticulously analyzing a vast array of historical data, technical documents, and project reports. The focus was on examining the integration of multidisciplinary knowledge, the fostering of cross-boundary collaboration, and the iterative process of “theoretical foundation—engineering practice” within the context of major engineering projects. By leveraging Qian Xuesen's system methodology, the study proposes a complex innovation system model for major engineering projects. This model encompasses comprehensive analysis, top-level design, system decomposition, and integrated synthesis, aiming to effectively manage complexity and drive continuous innovation. The findings reveal that the intricate characteristics of major engineering projects significantly facilitate the iterative and spiral progression of “theoretical foundation—engineering practice.” This is achieved through orchestrating extensive cross-boundary collaboration and amalgamating multidisciplinary knowledge. Such a dynamic process has culminated in the groundbreaking innovation of the world’s first supercritical circulating fluidized bed boiler. The study identifies key developmental stages: from the initial small-capacity steam boilers to mastering advanced design theories of circulating fluidized beds and finally achieving large-scale supercritical power boilers. Within the framework of major engineering missions and under constraints such as project timelines and budgetary considerations, the research underscores the necessity of exploratory learning through a “learning by doing” approach. This approach involves applying interim theoretical insights to technological advancements and utilizing comprehensive iterative feedback to progressively refine and approach an accurate theoretical understanding. The study underscores that major engineering projects, as integrated and super-large complex systems, possess unique advantages in promoting robust cross-boundary collaboration among diverse stakeholders in academia, industry, and research sectors. They also enhance the fusion of multidisciplinary knowledge and expedite the iterative and spiral advancement of “theory—practice.” To harness these advantages for driving fundamental research breakthroughs and original innovations, it is crucial to implement structured mechanisms such as comprehensive analysis, top-level design, system decomposition, and integrated synthesis. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of enabling researchers to fully capitalize on the multidisciplinary interaction opportunities afforded by major projects. By analyzing significant scientific questions through a multi-domain knowledge perspective and iteratively honing scientific understanding through “theory and practice,” the research advocates for setting shared objectives and establishing interdisciplinary centers. These measures aim to address challenges such as paradigm inconsistencies and disparate research practices encountered during cross-boundary collaboration, thereby enhancing innovation capacity and practical application outcomes. This research not only highlights the indispensable role of major engineering projects in national technological advancement but also offers invaluable theoretical foundations and practical guidance for future analogous projects. The study’s methodologies and findings provide innovative insights and hold significant academic exchange value for the implementation of future major projects, fostering multidisciplinary integration and collaborative innovation. Through systematic approaches and extensive collaboration, major engineering projects not only achieve technological breakthroughs but also make substantial contributions to national scientific and economic development. This comprehensive research methodology and its outcomes furnish a solid theoretical basis and practical guidance for future similar projects, promoting multidisciplinary integration and collaborative innovation, and driving forward comprehensive technological progress. Moreover, the implications of this research extend beyond immediate technological achievements. It offers a paradigm for understanding how large-scale projects can serve as crucibles for scientific and engineering advancements. By facilitating robust interactions among varied disciplines, these projects provide fertile ground for new ideas and approaches to emerge. The structured processes of comprehensive analysis, top-level design, system decomposition, and integrated synthesis ensure that innovations are not only technically sound but also practically viable and scalable. Furthermore, the study suggests that to fully leverage the potential of major engineering projects, there must be a concerted effort to build effective communication and collaboration frameworks. This includes fostering a culture of openness and adaptability where scientists, engineers, and managers can share insights and challenges freely, thus driving collective problem-solving and innovation. Establishing interdisciplinary research centers and setting common goals can help mitigate issues related to paradigm differences and inconsistent research practices, which often hinder effective collaboration. The research demonstrates that major engineering projects are more than just technical endeavors; they are dynamic systems that can drive profound scientific and technological advancements. By embracing a systems approach that integrates comprehensive analysis, strategic planning, and iterative feedback, these projects can achieve breakthroughs that have far-reaching impacts on national development. The lessons learned from the 600 MW supercritical circulating fluidized bed boiler project underscore the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and iterative learning in achieving innovation. This approach not only leads to successful project outcomes but also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing a nation’s scientific and technological capabilities. The research thus provides a valuable framework for future projects, offering insights into how to manage complexity, foster innovation, and achieve sustainable technological progress. Through continued exploration and application of these principles, major engineering projects can continue to play a pivotal role in driving forward the frontiers of science and technology.
Thesis
The development of the automobile into a high-tech multimedia product is not only foreseeable due to the latest findings in the field of autonomous driving. Ever since mechatronics entered the vehicle, a steady increase in functionality has been observed. At the center of the action are the control units, which act as intelligent control centers outside or inside the vehicle's electrical components. The field of small electric drives still represents one of the most important sectors of these today. Due to increasing global competition, individuality and differentiation have become indispensable sales arguments in this segment as well. Standardization methods, above all modular kits, offer the prospect of long-term market success. Unlike in the automotive industry, where modular kits remain in place for years, ECU development is characterized by very high innovation dynamics due to the different development cycles of the domains involved. Coupled with the trends of high integration and increasing functional density, this leads to a drastic increase in product complexity. Particularly in the early phase of a product development process, which is characterized by a high degree of uncertainty anyway, it is important to enable suitable ways of dealing with the prevailing complexity. This leads to the need for suitable approaches to address the specific challenges of ECU development in the use of small electric drives by means of modular development. In the context of the present work, methods for modular structuring and application adapted to the specifics of the early phase of the PGE – Product Generation Engineering of mechatronic ECUs are developed. The methodological and model-theoretical foundation of the research project is formed by the findings of the KaSPro - Karlsruhe School for Product Development. By means of the structuring method, a detailed procedure is described that leads the reader from a product portfolio of mechatronic control units to the creation of an MBSE-supported modular kit model. In order to enable the application of the modular kit in industrial practice, a tool chain is developed which is able to generate product recommendations from the modular kit based on real customer requirements and to weigh them against each other. The evaluation results generated by conducting case studies and expert interviews confirm the suitability of the methods for practical use. The automated modular kit application also makes a significant contribution to increasing efficiency in the derivation of product concepts in the early development phase.
Chapter
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