Organizational Behaviour: Action Research and the Politics of Change

This article discusses two important concepts in organizational behaviour: action research and the politics of change. Action research is a process of inquiry that involves both the researcher and the participants in the research in a collaborative effort to solve a problem. The politics of change refers to the process of managing the conflict and resistance that often occurs when organizations try to change.

Questions

• What is action research?
• What are the benefits of using action research?
• What are the challenges of using action research?
• What is the politics of change?
• How can organizations manage the politics of change?

Answers

• Action research is a process of inquiry that involves both the researcher and the participants in the research in a collaborative effort to solve a problem.
• The benefits of using action research include:
  • It can help to identify and solve problems that are relevant to the participants.
  • It can build capacity and empower the participants to take action.
  • It can lead to sustainable change.
• The challenges of using action research include:
  • It can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
  • It can be difficult to get participants to commit to the research process.
  • It can be difficult to manage the conflict and resistance that often occurs when organizations try to change.
• The politics of change refers to the process of managing the conflict and resistance that often occurs when organizations try to change.
• Organizations can manage the politics of change by:
  • Building a shared understanding of the need for change.
  • Communicating the change effectively to all stakeholders.
  • Addressing the concerns of stakeholders.
  • Providing support for those who are affected by the change.