1. Where are the new
organization theories?
Evolution, Development,
and Theoretical Debate
PREPARED BY/ NASHWA GHONEIM.

2. Objectives of the Research
1. Examine the history of various organization theories and
their development based on perspectives of legitimacy
and efficacy.
2. Analyze debates regarding theory development process.
3. Advocate the use of evidence-based theory development
process.
4. Provide the 5 P’s model for strategic leadership as an
example of a theory originated using evidence-based
theory development.
5. Suggesting the development of theories/models which
through application can be tested in terms of validity and
usefulness.

3. Points of Debate
 New organization forms requires midrange theory, grounded
theory not rigorous hypotheses testing … How!
Midrange methods “case studies or innovative outlier cases”
explain new phenomena and develop new variables/models.
Ex: Field research for organizations adopting empowerment
and inter-organizational collaboration.
 The study of organizations isn’t well developed .. Why!
Emphasis on representativeness, inclusiveness, methodological
rigor rendering OT systematically safe .. Why!
Unconventional research approaches are unwelcomed .. How!

4.  Some reviewers reject manuscripts as they consider new
theories and models outside consensually approved research
paradigms.
 Conceptual theories/model are accepted and legitimized
prior to empirical testing, verification, and confirmation for
enhanced communication.

5. Evidence-Based Theory Development
 Paradigm that integrates the best available research with
decision makers’ expertise and customers preferences toward
more desirable results.
 Newly developed theories/models are legitimate when they
are challenged and proven though rigorous testing and
application by practitioners.

6. The 5 P’s Model
 A comprehensive strategic leadership and systems
management model for strategy development and
execution.

7.  The model allows leaders to vertically and horizontally align
the 5 P’s to achieve organization’s success.
 The model was 1st introduced as a theoretical concept
consequently, by practice was perceived as a legitimate
theory.
 Organization leaders who implement theories/model should
decide whether they are valid or not!
 This model extended existing theory of strategic leadership
based on evidence/application.
 After application, it becomes a comprehensive framework for
strategy implementation.

8. Value-added of the Research
1. Examine the history of theory development.
2. Present problems within the field of OT and some theorists’
arguments that OT is irrelevant.
3. Analyze the need for rigorous testing to establish theory
legitimacy through APPLICATION.
4. Suggest an evidence-based approach to OT development
relevant to today’s dynamic environment.
5. Provide an example of evidence-based theory “
5 P’s model” for strategic leadership.

9. Conclusions of the Research
1. Theories do NOT have to be validated prior to being
presented as theories because they can be presented for
discussion.
2. OT development can be achieved through various types
of research including empirical hypothesis testing,
grounded theory, conceptual models, and evidence-
based theories which proved legitimate and useful.
3. Progress of OT development requires freedom to innovate,
propose, and apply new theories/models.
4. Practitioners should debate the usefulness of various
theories/models without worrying about relevance or
legitimacy.