Interpreting organizational texts

Article Abstract:

Organizations can be analyzed by interpreting 'texts' produced by the organization. These texts include managerial statements, writings, and observed behaviors. The rules for analyzing the texts of organizations have their roots in cultural anthropology, psychoanalysis, and hermeneutics. The procedure of psychoanalytic interpretation is applied to two case studies. Four general rules that can be applied to scrutinizing texts are to try to shape random observations into a thematically cohesive interpretation; to look for structural parallels between past and present activities; to look for the psychological urgency or pressing problem suggested by observed actions; and to look for multiple meanings in events.

Case studies, Organizational behavior

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Understanding industrial crises

Article Abstract:

This article provides a conceptual framework for understanding industrial crises. These crises are organizationally-based disasters which cause extensive damage and social disruption, involve multiple stakeholders, and unfold through complex technological, organizational and social processes. The characteristics of industrial crises are illustrated through a comparison of three diverse crises - the Bhopal disaster, the Tylenol poisonings, and the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger. Relationships among these characteristics are presented in a model of industrial crisis. Some issues for further research are identified. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Crisis management, Problem solving

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A mathematical model of the adaptive behavior of organizations

Article Abstract:

Using a Markovian representation, a mathematical model is developed to assess organizational adaptation to environmental change. Three environments are analyzed, testing the effectiveness of such adaptive strategies as: generalism vs. specialism, quantum vs. piecemeal, and gradual vs. batching changes into groups. The benefits and costs of each strategy are examined for each environmental condition. The mathematical model developed supports the assumptions made by earlier researchers in the fields of quantum structural changes and population ecologies of organizations.

Models, Management, Business planning, Organizational effectiveness, Change, Change (Philosophy)

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