The Organic Systems Framework A New Paradigm for Understanding and Intervening in Organizational Life

by Oshry, Barry

• ISBN13: 9781911193616
• ISBN10: 1911193619
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2019-09-02
• Publisher: Triarchy Press Ltd

Summary

A proposal for the first ‘accredited’ OD paradigm In Part 1 of this compelling book, veteran researcher and practitioner Barry Oshry demonstrates beyond doubt that, despite the frequent references to paradigms and paradigm shifts in the management and organization literature, there are no scientific paradigms in this field as Thomas Kuhn defined them in his landmark essay. He then makes a clear and convincing case for the Organic Systems Framework (OSF) to be recognised as a legitimate candidate for paradigm status, one from which research that extends, elaborates, tests, and applies the framework follows naturally. Along the way he sets out clearly and succinctly his theories of: • Power and Love • Tops, Middles and Bottoms • How whole systems individuate, integrate, differentiate and homogenize... (so this is the shortest and clearest account, yet, of these established and well-researched theories.) Finally, Oshry outlines the many areas of further research that would inevitably emerge if his Organic Systems Framework were to achieve paradigm status.

Author Biography

Barry Oshry is a pioneer in the field of human systems thinking. His life’s work has been to empower individuals and organizations by transforming system-blindness into system-sight. The educational programs he has developed include The Power Lab, the Organization Workshop on Creating Partnership, and the When Cultures Meet Workshop. In 2013 he launched The Worldwide Week of Partnership, during which Power+Systems trainers across the globe conduct pro bono partnership events for educational, charitable, advocacy, and service organizations in their local communities. In 2015 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Organization Development Network. Barry is the author of The Systems Letter, Seeing Systems, Leading Systems, In the Middle, and The Possibilities of Organization. He is also a playwright whose stage productions include “What a Way to Make a Living,” “Hierarchy,” “Power Play,” and “Peace.” In 1975 he and his wife and partner, Karen Ellis Oshry, founded Power+Systems, Inc. whose worldwide network of trainers continues the work of empowering individuals and organizations by transforming system-blindness into system-sight.