Abundance of Solutions: Some Thoughts for Theoretical and Practical Solution Seekers.

I would like to thank Joe Alutto, Fred Dansereau, Ray Hunt, Lou Pondy, and two anonymous ASQ reviewers whose comments were valuable in developing the ideas presented here. This paper introduces the concept of "solution environments," referring to the real and assumed distribution of good and bad solutions that can be attached to theoretical and practical problems. A consideration of the relevance of solution environments for theoretical and practical solution-seeking ventures suggests that the derivative value of any given solution is determined by virtue of its inclusion in some assumed solution environment. Several archtypical assumptions about solution environments are described, and speculations about their characteristics, causes, and consequences are presented. Aframeworkfor examining the utilization of organizational research is then proposed.o

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