APPLICATION OF INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN AN ENVIRONMENTALLY RELATED INDUSTRY

Abstract

This study describes the application of a participative action rsearch paradigm to organizational change and performance improvement in a sewage treatment works in the ASEAN region. The action research approach was used with the Confrontation Meeting to remove the rigid roles dictated by the hierarchical structure in the organization. Dita collection was done mainly by detailed interviews and through the use of the Job Description Inventory. Statistical techniques were used to examine the sectional scores of the JDI. The problem solving group formed for the action research played a key role in the data collection, feedback of data, formulation of action plans and implementation of the change strategy. A sociotechnical framework was used to conceptualised the relationships between the various organizational variables and a model of the problem-formation process was drawn up based on the data collected. There were positive changes from this multi-facet OD program. The study offers some comments on the implications of this exercise on the application of OD in the public sector organizations in this region.