Probing Organization Development

Abstract

For organization development (OD) to realize its full potential, gain more acceptance, secure greater institutionalization and make practical and ongoing problem-solving contribution, the paper points to the need for a more grounded, integrated, incremental, manageable and attainable approach. The paper posits that the theoretical idealization of OD as a full-fledged, alternative organizational form takes time and effort away from more workable and achievable tasks, viz. integrating OD formulations into ongoing organizational activities, absorbing OD into varied organizational settings, learning how change is occurring, and learning how external as well as internal environmental influences are causing more incremental and subtle shifts in organizational ambience.