Metaphors in operations management theory building

What is it about?

Metaphors can contribute to an understanding of the situations being addressed by operations management researchers, and can play a role in the preliminary steps of the development of a theory. This conceptual paper develops a comprehensive metaphorical framework: ways of seeing an organization – images – lead to ways of thinking about its functioning – metaphors - which lead to ways of managing within it.

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Why is it important?

This paper develops a metaphorical approach to ISO 9000 implementation. The use of organismic, political, and mechanistic metaphors enhances our ability to perceive, understand, and interpret key aspects influencing the application of quality management principles through ISO 9000 implementation.