Abstract
Models of organization are unsatisfactory as they assume a certain level of predictability, but research shows that each organization is unique and cannot be encapsulated by a single ontological model. Organizations exist in a turbulent environment and must change to survive, but change creates tensions that threaten its stability. Those who make up the organization cooperate only when it is in their interest to do so; in other words, it is far from being predictable. Individuals and groups use their power in an attempt to shape outcomes into one that they can accept. The way that power is used can have a significant effect upon the decisions made about the way the organization maintains its relationship with its environment. To enhance our understanding of the way organizational power is used, the notion of “commodity” as a metaphor for power is introduced as a means of surfacing the way in which individual power is used.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Systems Research for Real-World Challenges |
Editors | Frank Stowell |
Publisher | IGI Global |
Chapter | 7 |
Pages | 212-236 |
Number of pages | 25 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781522559979 |
ISBN (Print) | 1522559965, 9781522559962 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jun 2018 |