Strategic intent, organizational environment, and organizational learning mechanisms: a multiple-case study in the construction industry in Taiwan. Issue 5 (1st August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fang, Shih-Chieh; Chen, Hung Ku
• Editors: Cornelius, Nelarine; Coldwell, DavidA.L.
• Is Part Of: Personnel review. Volume 45:Issue 5(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-08-01
• Subjects: Personnel management -- Periodicals; 658.3005
• DOI: 10.1108/PR-11-2014-0266
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0048-3486

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of the current study is to develop different kinds of organizational learning mechanisms based on various types of strategic intents (proactive- and reactive- orientation) and organizational environments (stable and unstable). Design/methodology/approach: We utilized a grounded theory approach, and corroborated our results using multiple interviews and documents related to various cases. We determined the inter-judge agreement and performed a composite reliability analysis to ensure the robustness of our research. Findings: Successful organization learning is contingent upon managerial strategic intent and the organizational environment in which the organization operates. Proactive strategic intent will cultivate a group-oriented learning system, whereas reactive strategic intent emphasizes the effectiveness of personal learning. Firms in an environment marked by radical change utilize experiential learning mechanisms (Participation- and Experience-orientation), whereas firms in a stable environment use a specialist-knowledge-oriented approach to learning (Benchmarking- and Specializing -orientation). Originality/value: We offer a theoretical framework two-by-two matrix that has practical implications in providing managers with guidance in selecting the appropriate organizational learning mechanism to implement in their firms.