Properties of Emerging Organizations
Posted: 17 Nov 2009
Date Written: 1988
Abstract
Using organization theory, the properties of emergingorganizations are explored, as well as the opportunities for further researchin this area. Understanding the properties that an organization possesses as itis created will aid in identifying a framework for determining whenorganization creation may occur. Previous research has often focused only onstructure or on process -- this framework attempts to integrate theseapproaches. McKelvey's definition of organization is used to identify theproperties of emerging organizations. These properties are intentionality,resources, boundaries, and exchange. They represent the minimum characteristicsnecessary for identifying the existence of an organization, and help to focuson the interactions of agents and the environment. These characteristics may not become visible at the same time. Consequently,choosing one particular property as the sampling variable can dramaticallyimpact the point at which newly created organizations are identified. The useof these four properties will impact the methods and theory in organizationtheory and entrepreneurship. The use of each property to identify nascentorganizations is illustrated, and examples of previous research utilizing theseproperties are provided. Focusing on the period when a preorganizationmoves to a new organization will help to better explain the concept ofemergence and the manner in which organizations come into existence.(SRD)
Keywords: Organizational boundaries, Intentions, Exchange, Emerging organizations, Population ecology, Environment, Firm gestation, Resource acquisition, Startups, Organization theory
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