Research in Organizations: Foundations and Methods of Inquiry

Abstract

Research in Organizations: Foundations and Methods of Inquiry Editied by: Richard A. Swanson and Elwood F. Holton III Berrett-Kohler Publishers, Inc. (2005) 459 pages, Softcover, $32.97 Reviewed by: Donovan A. McFarlane City College-Fort Lauderdale Organizations of the 21st century must be viewed as learning since they must constantly learn from and adapt swiftly to the changes and uncertainties in the global business environment. This process of learning and adaptation amidst change and uncertainty demands a wide knowledge base and accurate information and technological know-how in an environment where failure and success alternate with simultaneous accords. The challenges facing 21st century are therefore overwhelming, and thus, the need for novel and cutting-edge becomes quite evident. Editors Swanson and Holton completely understand the exigencies for organizational and the need for a text that bridges the gap between the practical and theoretical when it comes to organizational as a branch of managerial science, and a lucrative pursuit in which contemporary seeking innovation and leadership will turn to. Swanson and Holton have presented readers with an excellent book whose major purpose is to advance in According to the editors, research in provides a milieu of challenges and opportunities that are and this is concordant with the trend towards greater competitive challenges and issues in the macroenvironment of 21st century businesses. Swanson and Holton present organizational leaders, managers, scholars, and researchers with a variety of methods of and inquiry that are effective in advancing organizational goals. The knowledge presented is based upon two major assumptions: (i) conducting in involves adapting traditional methods and modifying them for organizational congruence, and (ii) organizational researchers must effectively be equipped with, and utilize a variety of qualitative and quantitative methods to maximize success in the process. This theoretical, scholarly, and practical book aims to help beginning and expanding scholars learn about in organizations and presents a body of knowledge uniquely tailored to match this purpose. Part One of the text makes a powerful and compelling case as it examines the Challenge of Research in Organizations and the Process of Framing Research in Organizations. Here, Swanson lays an interesting and academically infallible foundation for the text as he provides us with unique definitions of and the process in today's organizations. Even more profound is the rationale for conducting organizational research, its challenges, and general strategies. An interesting depiction is the Theory-Research-Development-Cycle which allows progressive refinement of ideas to evolve into practices and concepts within organizational settings. In the process of framing in organizations, Swanson teaches us how to identify important problems through mental models, literature and experience, and processes and outcomes. In the first two chapters the reader is presented with a short, yet comprehensive and sound knowledge of methodology, practices and theories that can be effectively utilized in organizations. …