Global Journal of Business Management

Global Journal of Business Management ISSN 6731-4538 Vol. 13 (9), pp. 001-015, September, 2019. © International Scholars Journals

Full Length Research Paper

A complexity theory-based management framework for virtual organisations

Nicolette Papastefanou

Department of Public Relations and Business Communication, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X 680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa. E-mail: [email protected]. Tel: +27 12 382 9491/9911.

Accepted 09 July, 2019

Abstract

This article describes a complexity theory-based management framework for virtual organisations. Specific focus is on a South African virtual organisation as a complex adaptive system. A case study strategy was followed, and multiple data sources used to generate theory. The findings describe the management of an organisation where technology replaces conventional face- to-face contexts for integration and assimilation. The article showed how managers create a virtual context for sharing meaning and interaction through synergy, empowerment, participation and an accountable, committed workforce.

Key words: Complexity theory, management, post-modern organisation forms, virtual organisations.