Organization is a fundamental prerequisite of human civilization. Homo sapiens became successful because they learned to act in coordinated groups – and to stabilize these groups over time. Without organization, neither society nor the economy would be conceivable. We act within and through organizations.
Especially in times of accelerated change, questions about the structures, functions, and survival mechanisms of or-ganizations become increasingly pressing: What must remain stable to enable effective action? And what must change to ensure that an organization remains agile and adaptable to new conditions?
The title of this issue is inspired by Gareth Morgan’s Images of Organization – a work that has profoundly shaped organizational and management research and continues to have a strong impact today. DIALOGUE #73 follows Morgan’s idea that organizations become visible only through the interplay of different perspectives. The discussions range from the question of whether and how stability can be achieved, to trust, responsibility, decision-making arrangements, and the concept of the zero-based organization, as well as organization in networks and platform logics. They also explore areas of tension, from universities and empires to gray zones in which isolation and loyalty become structural principles, thus illustrating the many different ways in which organiza-tions can be conceived, designed, and experienced.
IMAGES OF ORGANIZATION
Stability and change in a dynamic world
DIALOGUE #73 READ NOW›
