A General Contingency Theory of Management

Abstract

Recent formal recognition of situational influences on the management of complex organizations has led to an increasing number of contingency models, but a comprehensive and integrative theoretical framework for contingency management has been lacking.A General Contingency Theory (GCT) of Management is introduced as an overall framework that integrates the diverse process, quantitative and behavioral approaches to management; incorporates the environment; and begins to bridge the gap between management theory and practice.A major goal of any academic pursuit is the development of an overall theory which can serve as a conceptual framework for understanding, research, and application (8).The search for such a theory in management has resulted in a