The congruence perspective of organization design: a conceptual model and multivariate, research approach

The current empirical and theoretical development in the literature of the environment-structure relationship has progressed quickly. Research has focused on the idea that the structure of an organization is dependent on its environments and that a congruence between environments and structures leads to high organizational performance. To provide direction for a systematic program of research on a congruence perspective of organization design, a theoretical model of strategic choice is presented that serves as an integrating framework from the organization design literature. The model is based on a multivariate approach that involves environment, technology, and structure, and their congruency. Several specific research hypotheses are presented; implications for the development of both descriptive and normative theory are discussed.