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The Structure of Problem-Solving Knowledge and the Structure of Organizations

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  • Marengo, Luigi, et al

Abstract

This work presents a rather general model of organizational problem-solving able to account for the relationships between problem complexity, decentralization of tasks and problem-solving efficiency. Whenever problem-solving requires the coordination of a multiplicity of interdependent elements, the varying degrees of decentralization of cognitive and operational tasks shape the solutions which can be generated, tested and selected. Suboptimality and path-dependence are shown to be ubiquitous features of organizational problem-solving. At the same time, the model allows a precise exploration of the possible trade-offs between decomposition patterns and search efficiency involved in different organizational architectures. Copyright 2000 by Oxford University Press.

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  • Marengo, Luigi, et al, 2000. "The Structure of Problem-Solving Knowledge and the Structure of Organizations," Industrial and Corporate Change, Oxford University Press and the Associazione ICC, vol. 9(4), pages 757-788, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:indcch:v:9:y:2000:i:4:p:757-88
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