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Assessing the Field of Organization Development

Jeana Wirtenberg & Associates, LLC

Lilian Abrams

Abrams & Associates

Carolyn Ott

Inspired Performance, LLC

This article describes Phase I of a larger organization development (OD) initiative. Asurvey was sent to more than 6,000 members of the Organization Development Network, Organization Development Institute, and International Organization Development Association to assess present weaknesses and potential strengths of the field. Respondents to this survey indicated that the field of OD (a) lacks a clear, distinct definition; (b) needs greater quality control/effectiveness and business acumen among OD practitioners; and (c) lacks clarity around its return on investment and perceived value of the work performed. At the same time, OD has significant strengths that can be leveraged. These include a systemic orientation in organizations, an ability to assist in change management, teamwork and leadership development, and the values OD brings to its practice. Building on these results, a literature review, and interviews with business leaders, six key integrated themes that have implications for the OD profession are described.

Key Words: organization development (OD) • business challenges/business partner • OD future • OD SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) • organization effectiveness (OE)

The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, Vol. 40, No. 4, 465-479 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/0021886304270246


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