Structural Contingency Theory In, Population-ecology Theory Out

Abstract

The population-ecology approach (the natural-selection model) used to be a major orientation in consideration of organizational change and transformation. It is presented by its proponents as a theory distinct from structural contingency theory. This theory begins by rejecting the claim of contingency theory that organizations are adaptive. Contingency theory understands that the social and business environment is subject to change. Any misfit between the contingency variables and the structure leads to lower performance. The move from misfit to fit is adaptive change which is the essence of contingency theory. This study reviews and compares these two theories in detail.