Revisiting Organizational Change: Exploring the Paradox of Managing Continuity and Change

Abstract

This article presents a conceptual review of the repository of organizational change literature from the perspective of a ‘paradox lens’, highlighting a clear shift in approach from trade-offs (either–or) to paradoxical thinking. This reiterates the fact that ‘managing change is invariably managing paradoxes’. An analysis of emerging concepts and frameworks present in a substantial body of literature that advocate balancing the paradox of ‘continuity and change’ brings to light a serious deficit of empirical research and actionable framework in the area. Addressing this research gap, propositions relating to the constructs of change, continuity and organizational performance have been outlined for directed research in this area.

Keywords:

• continuity
• continuity and change
• organizational change
• organizational management
• paradox