Course content

This course introduces how organizations can be designed and developed to balance technological demands, work processes, and human needs. At the core is socio-technical systems theory (STS), which emphasizes that both the technical and the social systems must be shaped in interaction to create effective, flexible, and sustainable organizations. Students learn about principles for task design, self-managed teams, participation, and learning organizations, as well as how organizational design can be applied to current challenges such as digitalization, sustainability, and new forms of collaboration.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

Upon completion of the course, the student shall have:

• in-depth knowledge of key perspectives on organizational design, including structure, processes, roles, culture, and technology
• understanding of the core principles of socio-technical systems theory (STS) and how they can help balance technical and human considerations
• insight into how digitalization, AI, sustainability, and new forms of collaboration influence choices and development in organizational design
• understanding of the importance of participation as a right and a core principle in organizational development, and how involvement in the design of work and organizational structures can promote good working conditions, learning, and motivation

Skills

Upon completion of the course, the student shall be able to:

• analyze their own organization using theories and methods from organizational design
• identify challenges and opportunities for improvement related to structure, processes, collaboration, and technology
• develop concrete initiatives that strengthen both efficiency, good working conditions, and employee engagement
• understand and propose redesigns of organizational structures that align with the organization’s environment and tasks

General competence

Upon completion of the course, the student shall be able to:

• reflect critically on how organizations can be designed to address complex societal and technological challenges
• actively contribute to development and change processes in their own organization with an emphasis on holistic and sustainable organizational design
• communicate analytical insights and recommendations in ways that are relevant and applicable in practice

Learning methods and activities

The course is organized as two gatherings of two days each during the semester. The gatherings will primarily include lectures, case-based discussions, and reflective exercises that connect theory with practical experience.

Between the gatherings, students will work on an assignment that may be completed individually or in groups, preferably linked to their own organization. This work is intended to help students apply and deepen their understanding of theories and methods in organizational design.

Supervision will be provided both during and between gatherings, supporting students in developing analytical skills, reflecting on their own practice, and formulating relevant proposals for organizational development.

Recommended previous knowledge

Bachelor’s degree. Applicants without a bachelor’s degree but with relevant work experience may be considered. Please contact the course coordinator.

Course materials

The reading list will be provided at the start of the course.