An action theory of transformative processes

Abstract

This article examines transformative process work as a mechanism for finding new ways of working by theorizing on the subject of process. A process is an interaction between people. The process goal is to use the momentum created by this human interaction to produce an outcome that fosters development of the organizational system and its people. An action theory of transformative processes at collective and individual levels is developed; it addresses ways of self-organizing, self-learning, and self-energizing. Transformative processes operate on various levels of organizational reality; on collective levels where matters are handled, on levels where conceptual issues dominate, on levels where values are important, and on levels at which organizational purpose is addressed. Individual consciousness spans levels of matters, levels of the mind, levels of the heart, and ultimately, levels of individual will. These types of human interaction follow collective and individual patterns in organizational space and time; in order to address not only what people do and how they do it, but also the interior condition of the individuals involved.