Sorting Out Organizational Experience

The workplace as described is a vast assortment of different kinds of data sets. Putting aside for the moment all of the more concrete aspects of the workplace that can be measured by efficiency experts, we are confronted with even greater complexity when we examine the wonderful and frustrating complexity that human nature introduces into the workplace. The use of an explicit model or theory of the workplace that demystifies human nature by locating it within a comprehensive organizational and operations perspective is essential in terms of facilitating an open discussion of the intrapersonal, interpersonal, group and organizational dynamics that are dominated by what people think, feel and do. Indeed, without such a model into which may be placed many of these usually undiscussable dynamics, change may not be contemplated. It is often just too dangerous to approach others about leadership and followership styles as well as interpersonal relations and group process.

Dynamic workplace theory proposed here offers to do several important things in terms of locating the important aspects of organizational experience and creating a context in which they may be discussed. First, the theory helps to create meaning in terms of how all the experience of organization life may be brought together. Patterns can be found in what seems like confusing and overwhelming experience. The theoretical approach described in chapter 2 helps to create meaning where none may be observed to exist at the moment. A second and closely related outcome of having a model or theory of organizational dynamics is that it serves to allay anxiety. There is something comforting about having in hand a useful way of understanding what is going on. In particular it must be appreciated that the more anxious consultants, executives and employees become, the less likely they are able to think objectively about events and appreciate their feelings and those of others that contribute to the distressing workplace experience of the moment.

In Sum

The ability to understand the complexity of worklife and the ability to discuss it with others with an eye on changing those aspects that are dysfunctional is dependent upon having a shared context that permits joining together to do this work. Dynamic workplace theory offers the promise of providing this context for organization members.