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Action ResearchIn Organizational Development
Action Research
Coined by Kurt Lewin (MIT) in 1944
Reflective process of progressive problem solving
Also called participatory action research
Action Research in OD
OD is at one point defined as Organization improvement through action research
Action research involves the process of actively participating in an organization change situation whilst conducting research
Action research model is the most widely used model for bringing about organizational change by an external consultant
Steps in Action Research
Entry
Formal introduction
To know about clientNature of the organization
Problems faced
Client requirements
To know about consultantQualification
Previous achievements
To build a positive relationship
Start up and contracting
Decision to work together
Jointly decide on the followingProject objective
Project approach
Project milestones
Deliverables
To develop a basic document (Terms of Reference TOR)
Data gathering and diagnosis
Data gathering done in 2 ways
Secondary dataData and information collected from official records
Information given by top management
Primary dataCollected through staff surveys
Direct observation
Diagnosis and analysis performed by consultant
Feedback
Very critical stage
Diagnosis results shared with all stake holdersTo determine the consequent steps rather than dictating
Shared vision guarantees cooperation in subsequent stages
Consultant to present summary reportShare findings
Form conclusions
Recommend actions
Feedback
The problem indicated by the top management is quantified and acknowledged by all stake holders
Even if managers disagree with findings, they would agree with recommendations
Individual feedback sessions
Planning change
Deep exploration of potential solutionsNot just solutions discussed
Sub dividing activitiesTraining activities
Admin changes
Planning resources required for activitiesTraining material
Meeting schedules
Intervention
Consultant moves from “expert” to “facilitator”
Client and managers are made accountable
Consultant responsible forClear communication
Coordination
Monitoring and reporting
Evaluation
Evaluation takes place at the end of each phase of action research
Effectiveness of each activity in intervention phase to be quantified and monitored by the consultant
Standard protocol to be followed
Future scope to be defined and link to be established for further interactions
Adoption
Many suggested changes require continuous monitoring
Consultant to get commitment from client on follow up processes
Client and managers are to be equipped with knowledge and tools to carry on the activities
Separation
Consultant has to move on to other clients
Clients have to focus on other pressing issues
Continued involvement can become counter productive
Problems faced
Organization is dynamicChanging priorities
Changing employees / sponsors
Changing environment
Success is not measured by effort but through results
Thank You