Toward Typology of Organization Development Research

OD research is currently in a confused yet rapidly developing state. It is argued here that this situation exists partly because of a basic confusion as to exactly what constitutes OD research. A definitional typology is proposed based on the intentions the researcher has for how the findings are to be used. Two primary intentions are identified: (a) use of research results to guide practice, and (b) use of research results to develop theory. A typology using these two intentions individually or in combination is developed and discussed.