Organizational Development
May 1, 2024
Updated May 9, 2025
22 minute read
Organizational Development (OD) is a critical and applied field of study focused on understanding and improving organizational effectiveness and health. At its core, OD involves planned, organization-wide efforts to increase an organization's ability to adapt to change and enhance its overall performance. This often involves a systematic diagnosis of an organization's challenges and opportunities, followed by the implementation of strategic interventions. For those intrigued by the prospect of shaping how organizations function, evolve, and succeed, OD offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating path. Professionals in this field often find themselves at the forefront of significant organizational transformations, guiding companies through complex changes, fostering positive workplace cultures, and helping teams and individuals reach their full potential.
y8t7gm|
Find a path to becoming a Organizational Development. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/y8t7gm/organizational
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Organizational Development.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of organization development, covering theory, research, and practical applications.
An authority on organizational culture, Schein's book delves into the profound impact of culture on organizational behavior and the role of leaders in shaping it.
A classic work on organizational change, this book outlines an eight-step process for leading and managing change effectively.
Focuses on the interpersonal skills and facilitation techniques needed by change agents to navigate organizational dynamics and support change initiatives.
Introduces appreciative inquiry, an approach that focuses on identifying and building upon an organization's strengths to drive positive change.
Presents the balanced scorecard, a performance measurement framework that aligns organizational objectives with strategic goals.
Explores the concept of psychological safety and its importance for fostering a culture of innovation and learning within organizations.
Explores the concept of organizational agility and its benefits for innovation, growth, and customer satisfaction.
A practical guide to facilitating change in organizations, this book provides techniques and strategies for engaging stakeholders and guiding the change process.
Provides a hands-on guide to implementing the Toyota Production System (TPS), a renowned approach to organizational efficiency and continuous improvement.
While not specifically about organizational development, this book provides valuable insights into the challenges organizations face in adapting to technological innovation.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/y8t7gm/organizational