Navigating Transformational Paradoxes

Question 1

Wicked Problems

Answer 1

Complex and intractable challenges that are difficult or impossible to solve definitively due to their inherent ambiguity, interconnectedness, and lack of clear-cut solutions.

Question 2

Dynamic Equilibrium Model of Organizing

Answer 2

1. Paradoxical Tension: The ongoing coexistence of opposing forces or demands within an organization.
2. Latent Tension: Underlying paradoxical tensions that are not yet fully recognized or acknowledged.
3. Salient Tension: Paradoxical tensions that become apparent and demand attention, triggering responses from the organization.
4. Acceptance: Embracing paradoxical tensions via a strategy of “Working-Through”
5. Paradoxical Resolution: Confronting via iterating responses of splitting and integration.
6. Sustainability: Short term peak performance that fuels long-term success.

Question 3

Ambidexterity

Answer 3

Ability of an organization to simultaneously exploit existing competencies while also exploring new opportunities.

Question 4

Building Ambidexterity

Answer 4

• Spatial Separation: Create separate units in the same organization with different
  orientations and link them through top management
• Parallel Structures: Create special project teams devoted to innovation
• Temporal Balancing: Shift between phases when the focus is on exploration with others when it is on exploitation
• Context: Combine performance management with stretching targets with
  supportive values and processes
• Individual Responses to Tensions: Operational/ Middle management focus on integration & Top managers focus on separation (temporal/structural)

Question 5

Pragmatic Paradoxes

Answer 5

Contradictory demands or expectations that organizations must manage to function effectively.

Question 6

DOUBLE BIND

Answer 6

A situation in which a person is faced with two or more mutually exclusive demands, with no way of fulfilling all of them without punishment.
“Take initiative”
=> Coercion

Question 7

PARADOXICAL PREDICTION

Answer 7

A prediction that, if true, results in its own falsity; or, if false, results in its own truth.
“Best practice”
=> Manipulation

Question 8

CATCH-22

Answer 8

A paradoxical situation from which an individual cannot escape because of contradictory rules or limitations.
“Experience required”
=> Domination

Question 9

ORWELLIAN DOUBLETHINK

Answer 9

The practice of accepting two mutually contradictory ideas as being simultaneously true.
“Impossible
requirements for
female managers”
=> Subjectification

Question 10

Functional Stupidity

Answer 10

Focus on the task and obedience to
directives increases efficiency and
reduces uncertainty by limiting
critical thinking and reflection

Question 11

Manifestations of Functional Stupidity

Answer 11

• Lack of reflexivity
• Lack of justification
• Lack of substantive reasoning

Question 12

Phenomenons of Functional Stupidity

Answer 12

• Simplification Trap
• Extreme Polarization
• Path Dependence