Organizational intelligence: a structuration view

Abstract

Purpose - This paper aims to unify the fragmented views on organizational intelligence from the perspective of Giddens' structuration theory. Design/methodology/approach - The paper used a case study of a firm, which is a small electronics manufacturing group located in the New England area of the northeast USA. Data were collected by observation, oral histories and through discussion and interviews with organization members. Findings - It was observed that a structuration view of organization intelligence removes the individual/organization level intelligence dichotomy, and integrates the fragmented studies on the epistemology of intelligence, eg. cognitive, behavioral and social/emotional. Research limitations/implications - Propositions for further research are formulated. However, findings are derived on the basis of a substantive case study in a particular country. Further, research needs to expand this base to encompass other organizations in a wider range of countries across different cultures. Practical implications - This paper helps managers to assess and to operationalize organizational intelligence. Originality/value - This paper proposes a more comprehensive understanding of intelligence in organizations.