The Central Role of Discourse in Large-Scale Change: A Social Construction Perspective
Author
Barrett, Frank J.
Thomas, Gail Fann
Hocevar, Susan P.
Date
1995-09Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
This article reconceptualizes the change process from a rational planning perspective to
an interpretive perspective emphasizing the social construction of meaning. Discourse
is viewed as the core of the change process through which our basic assumptions about
organizing are created, sustained, and transformed. To illustrate the dynamics of meaning
systems, examples are provided of organizations shifting from mechanistic assumptions
to become more adaptive, responsive, quality-oriented organizations. Implications
for researchers and managers are included.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.Collections
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