Definition
Organizational development is the planned effort to improve an organization's effectiveness and capability. Founders reach for it when a vague conversation needs a shared, specific meaning. Name it clearly, then let the next decision — a hire, a price, a test, or a pass — follow from that meaning.
In the room
How the word shows up in a real conversation.
In a Monday review, someone writes Organizational development on the board and restates it: “Planned effort to improve an organization's effectiveness and capability.” The next move is a test, a cut, or a double-down — not another debate about the word.
Common mistake
Using Organizational development as a label instead of a fact. If you cannot point to the evidence — a number, a customer, or a written assumption — you are using the word as jargon.
See also
Organizational culture
Shared values, beliefs, and practices that define how an organization operates.
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Organizational effectiveness
Measure of how well an organization achieves its goals and objectives.
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Organizational structure
Framework that defines how activities are coordinated and controlled within an organization.
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Order fulfillment
Process of receiving, processing, and delivering customer orders.
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