Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the study of supply chain design from the perspective of complex dynamic systems. Unlike extant studies that use formal simulation modelling and associated methodologies rooted in the physical sciences, it adopts a framework rooted in the...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual model that uses dialectical inquiry (DI) to create cognitive conflict in strategic decision‐makers for the purpose of improving strategic decisions. Activation of the dialectical learning process using DI requires strategic...

Purpose – The aim of this contribution is to describe a new methodology for designing strategic plans and how it was implemented by ATM, a public transportation agency based in Milan, Italy. Design/methodology/approach – This methodology is founded on a new system theory, called “quantum...

Analyses four firms to determine if they develop the ability to be selective and to determine what factors have the greatest impact on discrimination. Discrimination skills involve the ability to discriminate or to discern differences among decision situations and to choose appropriate...

Synthesizes the ideas of the “transformational change” and “learning organization” literature. The concept of the action learning organization is presented as a bridge between learning and transformation as it involves collaborative questioning by organizational members of their own...

Examines the challenges of leading and managing in a networked, learning organization context. Provides theoretical prescription as to how middle managers might be motivated and assisted to operate effectively in such contexts. Includes real‐world illustrations of etwork‐type organizations.

Reminds us that different organizations seek to deal with environmental pressures in different ways; some are proactive, others rely largely on reaction. Paradoxically, reactive crisis fighters typically thrive on the challenge of short‐term problems. Effective organisations, however, need...

Purpose This paper aims to provide an overview of the concept ‘organizational unlearning’ and its development since it was first introduced to the management literature and presents a useful perspective that can help to advance the conceptual development of this topic....

This paper examines the aspect of designing global virtual teams and the key factors that impact team design. Examines how design impacts team performance. Proposes a conceptual model for designing such teams to deliver optimal performance. The model contains four major elements: virtual team...

This paper explores how consulting can contribute to the success of virtual teamwork. Based on an introduction to the concept of virtual teams, the potential of virtual teamwork for consultants and clients is outlined. Central questions are: “For which reasons do virtual teams deserve...