Publication

Abstract : The objective of this case study is to explore the application of organizational metaphors in realistic contexts. Metaphors define the realities that we exist in. Metaphors give teams and institutions an orientation of direction, definition of their past and principles for existence. They help answer queries about the organization like, “What is my Organization like - is it a family, a prison? or a jungle? To what kind of Organization am I contributing to? According to Gareth Morgan (1986), Aristotle was among the earliest to recognize the role that metaphors play in the creation of knowledge. To extend our understanding about Organizations, in the book Images of Organizations, Morgan (1986, 1997) presents eight metaphorical images: machines, organisms, brains, cultures, political systems, psychic prisons, flux and transformation and instruments of domination. The unit of investigation in this study is the Organization called as ABC Business School. Data for developing the case was gathered through observation, formal documents and from interactions with the stakeholders in the case. Through the analysis of the case of Organizational Development Intervention at ABC Business School, this study concludes that ABC Business School can be depicted through the brain metaphor. The study asserts the fact that ABC school adopts the double loop learning characteristic of brain metaphor where the learning focus is on the adjustment of models, approaches, and continuous learning in order to respond to changing circumstances. This study which looks at the application of organizational metaphors in realistic contexts also offer further insights into the suggestions and evidences as to who are the stake holders involved in running and leading organizations towards prosperity and growth.