Synopsis
In this book, Lex Donaldson, one of the leading scholars in the field of organization theory, introduces a compelling theory of performance-driven organizational change, Organizational Portfolio Theory. In explaining why organizations change and also why they fail to change, the theory reconceptualizes the organization as a portfolio with a number of different causes of organizational performance varying over time. The author argues that without a performance crisis there is a good chance that necessary organizational changes will not be forthcoming, and that moreover, the adaptive change induced by the crisis creates the capacity for fresh organizational growth.
Booknews
Proposes a new theory of organizational adaptation and growth, built on contingency theory. Donaldson (organization design, the Australian Graduate School of Management) argues that recurrent crises of poor organizational performance are required to induce the adaptive change necessary for organizations to grow larger and more effective. He cites examples from research across multiple disciplines in support of his ideas. Of interest to students and scholars in the areas of strategy, human resource management, economics, and organizational change. Paper edition (unseen), $24.95. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.