Three contemporary challenges for OD practitioners

Contemporary organisational realities challenge consultants to develop: more up‐to‐date motivational knowledge; the ability and willingness to work with change agents unsympathetic to applied social science; and, facility with methodologies for both cultural and structural change. Changes over the last two decades have resulted in a more diverse motivational picture than the 1950s to 1970s humanistic motivational theories that underlie most organisational development theory and practice. In response, consultants need to develop a portfolio of consultancy methods that enable them to address not only cultural changes (e.g. attitudinal and change) but also structural changes (e.g. organisational design). Today, most clients who hire organisational consultants do so to complement technological and strategic changes anticipated or already undertaken. OD practitioners need to increase their ability to understand and work with change managers, and their consultants, who see the world predominantly through technological and economic eyes.