The levels of analysis of organizational behavior

This approach suggests that when studying organizational behavior, we must identify clearly the level of analysis being used – individual, group, and/or organizational.

Second, organizational behavior is an interdisciplinary field. This means that it utilizes principles, models, theories, and methods from existing disciplines. Organizational behavior is not a discipline or a generally accepted science with an established theoretical foundation. Only now it is beginning to grow and develop in stature and impact.

Third, there is a distinctly humanistic orientation within organizational behavior. People and their attitudes, perceptions, learning capacities, feelings, and goals are of major importance.

Fourth, organizational behavior is performance –oriented.

Why is performance low or high?

How can performance be improved?

Can training enhance on-the-job performance?

These are important issues facing practicing managers.

Fifth, the external environment has a significant impact on organizational behavior.

Sixth, since organizational behavior relies heavily on recognized disciplines, the role of the scientific method is important in studying variables and relationships.

Finally, organizational behavior has a distinctive applications orientation. It is concerned with providing useful answers to questions that arise in the context of managing organizations.

To learn how to manage individuals, and groups as resources of organizations, it is essential to focus on the behavior of individuals, groups and organizations.