Sunday, July 18, 2010

Lesson 1: Introduction to Organizational Development


By: Vina Almeda

WHAT IS ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT?


As I’ve learned in my Organizational Theory class, there are certain procedures, models and structures needed to be followed in order to have a stable environment. Order and structure is needed to ensure the survival of the organization. In class, it was discussed that organizational Development is a process of a planned system change that attempts to make organizations (viewed as socio-technical systems) better able to attain their short and long term objectives. This process enables the organization to be better in achieving their goals, vision and mission.


Organizational Development is a planned system wide change to achieve greater organizational performance, productivity and effectiveness—that involves all the interrelated areas of the organization. The process will ensure the efficiency of the products and services of the organization. It also involves the applications of behavioral and social science knowledge in solving organizational gaps, issues and problems. This process is needed to achieve the desired organizational effectiveness and development of its members. OD is needed in the every organization to understand their problems and in order to find solutions and alternatives for it.

The founding father of Organizational Development is Kuri Lewin (1898-1947).

He came with ideas such as group dynamics, and action research which strengthens the basic OD process as well as providing its collaborative consultant and clients.¹ He certainly plays a big part in the OD world.

Reference: ¹ Wikipedia: Organizational Development; Other reference are from notes and lectures

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