Spiral Structure and the Sensemaking Process in the 3S Model of Programs

Abstract

We propose a methodology to increase the effectiveness of program implementation in an environment of increasing uncertainty. More specifically, we revise our understanding of the 3S model based on its spiral structure, and show the effectiveness of the sensemaking process in that context. By combining the sensemaking concept in organizing theory with the spiral framework of organizational knowledge creation, we explore the sensemaking process in interactive organizational development, which enables extension of the ontological dimension from individual to group to organization to inter-organization. Furthermore, we were able to confirm, based on a case which actually occurred at a company, the process whereby organizational development is realized from small fluctuations. However, the limitations of qualitative research methodology have not been fully overcome, and there is a need for deeper research through comparative verification of interactive organizational development and diagnostic organizational development, and studies incorporating the diversity of interactive organizational development.