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Introductory Essay—Improvisation as a Mindset for Organizational Analysis

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  • Karl E. Weick

    (School of Business Administration, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109)

Abstract

The purpose of this essay is to improve the way we talk about organizational improvisation, using the vehicle of jazz improvisation as the source of orienting ideas. I start with two brief descriptions of the complexity involved when musicians compose in the moment. Then I review several definitions intended to capture holistically what is happening when people improvise. Next, I take a closer look at selected details in improvisation, namely, degrees of improvisation, forms for improvisation, and cognition in improvisation. These understandings are then generalized from jazz to other settings such as conversation, therapy, and relationships of command. I conclude with implications for theory and practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Karl E. Weick, 1998. "Introductory Essay—Improvisation as a Mindset for Organizational Analysis," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 9(5), pages 543-555, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ororsc:v:9:y:1998:i:5:p:543-555
    DOI: 10.1287/orsc.9.5.543
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Wruck, Karen Hopper & Jensen, Michael C., 1994. "Science, specific knowledge, and total quality management," Journal of Accounting and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 18(3), pages 247-287, November.
    2. Frank J. Barrett, 1998. "Coda—Creativity and Improvisation in Jazz and Organizations: Implications for Organizational Learning," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 9(5), pages 605-622, October.
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