Knowledge for Action - (Joint Publication in the Jossey-Bass Management Series and t) by Chris Argyris (Hardcover)

About the Book

Knowledge for Action presents a step-by-step description of how to diagnose an organization's capacity to learn, analyze the data, and design and implement effective interventions that help change the status quo and create a more dynamic and innovative organization. Argyris demonstrates how his proven research methods produce "actionable knowledge"--knowledge that tests the validity of the research methods themselves when used in day-to-day operations--and calls for genuine partnership of professionals and researchers jointly focused on this strategic goal.

Book Synopsis

Must reading for academics and executives alike. Leading business scholar Chris Argyris helps readers understand why individuals and organizations are unable to learn from their action, then presents the steps that must be taken to change.

From the Back Cover

The landmark book Action Science introduced a revolutionary new theory of organizational problem-solving. Knowledge for Action turns this theory into practice."Knowledge for Action is must reading for academics and exceutives alike. Chris Argyris once again demonstrates that he is the leading scholar in helping us understand why individuals and organizations are unable to learn from their actions and what steps must be taken to develop this essential capability. No executive who desires his organization to improve and learn continuously, or academic who want to develop usable as opposed to merely useful theory, can do so without understanding the message of this book."--Michael Beer, professor of business administration, Harvard Business School

Review Quotes

"Knowledge for Action is must reading for academics and executives alike. Chris Argyris once again demonstrates that he is the leading scholar in helping us understand why individuals and organizations are unable to learn from their actions and what steps must be taken to develop this essential capability. No executive who desires his organization to improve and learn continuously, or academic who wants to develop usable as opposed to merely useful theory, can do so without understanding the message of this book." (Michael Beer, professor of business administration, Harvard Business School)

About the Author

CHRIS ARGYRIS is James Bryant Conant professor of organizational behavior in the graduate schools of business and education at Harvard University. His previous Jossey-Bass books include Action Science (with Robert Putnam and Diana McLain Smith, 1985), and Theory in Practice (with Donald A. Schojn, 1974).