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Clues, cues and complexity: unpacking the concept of organizational surprise

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  • Miguel Pina e Cunha
  • Ken Kamoche
  • Stewart R. Clegg

Abstract

We discuss why surprises, defined as events that happen unexpectedly or expected events that take unexpected shapes, are important to organizations and should be considered in the organizational literature. The concept of organizational surprises is unpacked on the basis of a typology built around the (un)expectedeness of issue and process. This typology uncovers the several types of surprising events that organizations may face, and contributes to the literature by suggesting that different surprises require distinct approaches.

Suggested Citation

  • Miguel Pina e Cunha & Ken Kamoche & Stewart R. Clegg, 2004. "Clues, cues and complexity: unpacking the concept of organizational surprise," Nova SBE Working Paper Series wp453, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Nova School of Business and Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:unl:unlfep:wp453
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