Series Editor Anthony F. Buono, Bentley University An Evolving Paradigm:
Integrative Perspectives on Orgainizational Design, Change, Strategic
Management, and Ethics-was prepared specifically for Benedictine
University's doctoral program in organization development (OD). In
addressing the myriad strategic considerations that underlie intervening
in organizations, questions of posturing, image management, and ethics
raise significant challenges for how we think about our role as change
agents and the unique set of responsibilities that we assume in that
role. An earlier volume in the Research in Management Consulting series,
-- Emerging Trends in Management Consulting -- focused on the
Janus-faced nature of management consulting. Janus, the Roman god of
doorways and gateways, looking backwards and forwards with contrasting
perspectives-beginnings and endings, comedy and tragedy, good and evil -
is a useful analogy to capture the multidimensional nature-positive and
negative-of the consulting realm. For all the challenges and
shortcomings the field of OD and change might encompass, there are also
those magical moments when our interventions succeed, when our efforts
truly enhance organizational performance, and when organizational
members grow, develop, and become more satisfied with their roles and
activities. The reality is that the latter demands our conscious
attention, commitment, and, to some degree, sacrifice. When we are less
thoughtful than we should be, when we are distracted by other
commitments and obligations, or when we find ourselves in situations
where we are less than prepared is when Janus' other face materializes.
The volume explores the possibilities and challenges inherent in OD
intervention and change initiatives.
