Evolution of Organizational Development and Implications for Management of Ghanaian Organizations

Abstract

The paper traces the history of Organization development (OD) over the past decades by highlighting major events that led to the formation of T-groups and thus organizational development.  Five main stems (National training laboratory, Action research, Normative Approach, Quality work life and strategic change) of organization development are explained. The paper also outlines the contributions of some prominent people like Bradford and Kurt Lewin whose works have resulted in the evolution of OD. Based on past events examined, current trends emerging in OD were outlined together with implications for Ghanaian organizations.

Keywords: Evolution, organizational development, management, Ghana.