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Antecedents of Organizational Complacency: Identifying and Preventing Complacency in the Work Environment

Author

Listed:
  • Abe Harraf

    (University of Northern Colorado, USA)

  • Brandon William Soltwisch

    (University of Northern Colorado, USA)

  • Kaitlyn Talbott

    (University of Northern Colorado, USA)

Abstract

Today’s competitive global environment is more dynamic than ever and is one in which organizations cannot sit idly by. The financial crisis in the us economy provides a vivid example of what can happen when organizations fail to adjust to changes in their environment. However, little is known about the underlying causes of complacency and what managers can do to prevent it. This article identifies sources of complacency in four major areas: process, people, structure, and culture. We then develop a framework for assessing the need for environmental scanning based on the complexity and frequency of change in the environment. Finally, we use market examples to provide managers with useful advice on how to identify and react to complacency in their organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Abe Harraf & Brandon William Soltwisch & Kaitlyn Talbott, 2016. "Antecedents of Organizational Complacency: Identifying and Preventing Complacency in the Work Environment," Managing Global Transitions, University of Primorska, Faculty of Management Koper, vol. 14(4 (Winter), pages 385-401.
    • Handle: RePEc:mgt:youmgt:v:14:y:2016:i:4:p:385-401
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Abe Harraf & Jay M. Lightfoot & Adam Cole, 2022. "Public-Private Partnerships: Policy Prescription during the Era of Pandemics," Eurasian Journal of Business and Management, Eurasian Publications, vol. 10(4), pages 204-211.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    organizational complacency; strategic flexibility; change; adaption; organizational culture;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M12 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Personnel Management; Executives; Executive Compensation
    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility

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