Organizational Development

Organizational Development

Lizabeth Sosa

PSY/428

September 12, 2011

Dr. Michael Phillips

Organizational Development

Organizational development has evolved through the years and in conducting research I discovered several definitions. For the purposes of this paper the definition according to Jex & Britt (2008) states “Organizational development is a set of behavioral science-based theories, values, strategies, and technologies aimed at planned change of the organizational work setting for the purpose of enhancing individual development and improving organizational performance, through the alteration of organizational members’ on-the-job behaviors.” Understanding this definition will provide guidance in explaining the process of organizational development, identify the theories associated, and describe conditions necessary for successful organizational change and development.

Process of organizational development

The process of organizational development is to primarily recognize the need, identify, and improve the organization’s performance to benefit the organization, employees, and stakeholders. There are several theories or models used in the process of organizational development. Effective process of organizational development requires the organization to recognize the need for change. These changes can be a result of changes in the company’s earnings, high employee turnover, or increased competition. The process of change is a crucial and difficult step because the process may involve costly training and will require employees to do things differently than in the past (Jex & Britt, 2008). Resistance to change can occur and it is important for the organization to communicate the need for change and that it is in the best interest of the organization.

Organizational development theories

As outlined by Jex & Britt (2008) “There is no recognized “father of organizational development.” Lewin’s three step model of change and action is...