Connectivity, creativity and chaos. Challenges of loosely-structured organizations

The organizational future outlined in this article portends both exciting opportunities and substantial challenges. In the process of moving beyond the rigidities of traditional organizational models, aided by computer and communications technology, we will inevitably encounter the tension between the creativity of new organizational models and the potential chaos of substantial change. Those who can foster and take advantage of the creativity while also avoid being trapped by the chaos will prosper. The key to dealing with this inherent tension involves understanding and supporting new approaches to organization, planning, and control. These approaches need to deal with issues of assessing and monitoring business situations; predicting the impacts of alternative ventures, relationships, and investments; and obtaining, deploying, and redeploying resources. Of particular importance, these approaches need to be researched, developed, and adapted to loosely-structured organizational models.

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