Time in organizations

Abstract

Current organizational theory looks at time on task, as opposed to time off task. However, there is a more complex pattern of time use. Organization time, based on these findings, is defined as whether one engages with organization, or disengages from organization, and engages with task, or disengages from task. This article explores the theoretical implications of these complex relationships, as the locus of an individual’s use of time moves along the axes of engagement/disengagement from organization and task. The author urges organizational theorists to explore and evaluate the importance of understanding time usage for a better understanding of phenomena such as organizational learning, creativity, and quality of work life. This model provides a framework for further investigation and theoretical understanding of time from the perspective of the individual as well as of the organization.