Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop a model to assist a South African information
technology company with its organisation redesign interventions. A modernist qualitative methodology, with casing as research design and grounded theory as research strategy, was employed to develop a substantive model.
Seven employees were selected as research participants by means of purposive
sampling. Their experience of the company’s redesign was explored with a view to
developing the model. Various data collection methods were used: semi-structured and follow-up interviews, solicited e-mail essays and policy documents. These yielded rich
descriptive data, which were systematically analysed by means of grounded theory
methodology. Manual and computer-based (ATLAS.ti 5.0) qualitative data analysis
techniques were used to develop the substantive model.
After conclusion of the data analysis, the literature on the most current organisation
downsizing typologies, models and theories was reviewed. The results of this review
informed a focus group discussion that was aimed at substantiating the model. This
discussion culminated in the formulation of the Organisation Redesign Model.
Thereafter recommendations were made for future research in this field.
The Organisational Redesign Model has implications for the information technology
sector in South Africa, and the formalisation of grounded theory and the roadmap thereof should facilitate the application of grounded theory in future research.
Authenticity, trustworthiness, credibility and reflectivity were ensured by following the guidelines provided in the literature.
Prof. W.J. Schurink