OD in Military Organizations

In: Group & organization studies, Band 4, Heft 2, S. 135-142

Abstract

Is organization development (OD) possible in military organiza tions, where one would think the typical norms and values (openness, participation, etc.) associated with OD are in direct conflict with those found in the system? Whether or not OD is possible under such condi tions, it is most certainly being attempted. Denis Umstot, Lt. Col. USAF, is well qualified to review the extent of OD efforts in the U.S. military, although he remains appropriately cautious regarding out comes. Dr. Umstot was winner of the 1976 dissertation award given by the Industrial-Organizational Psychology division of the American Psychological Association for an experimental study of the effects of job enrichment. He has taught at the Air Force Institute of Technology since 1975 and has been active in Air Force OD efforts.