A conceptual framework of strategy, action and performance dimensions of organizational agility development

Purpose Agility is today a key dimension of organizational excellence as it encompasses the aptitude to successfully respond to changes in the surrounding environment. Existing research has investigated specific aspects or perspectives of agility. However, a holistic view to encompass all dimensions of agility development into a unique integrative framework is yet to be introduced. The purpose of this paper is to address this gap by presenting a conceptual model that encapsulates various dimensions critical to the development of agility within organizations. Design/methodology/approach An extended review of specialized literature is used to identify contributions defining elements and constructs associated with agility and agility development. A design science approach is then adopted to build the proposed framework. Findings Three critical dimensions of agility development are referred to three macro-areas of general management activity, i.e. establishing a strategy for action, acting, and measuring the resulting performance. The three dimensions are described in terms of seven sub-dimensions and thirty different items involved into or concerned with an agility development initiative. Research limitations/implications The framework is the result of a comprehensive taxonomical effort. However, further effort is needed in terms of theoretical validation and in-depth study of single components and interactions among dimensions and sub-dimensions. Practical implications The paper provides a structured classification of agility-related elements and it can support managers involved into the design and execution of agility development initiatives. Originality/value The main value added of the paper is to provide a holistic view of agility development and a number of interdisciplinary perspectives into a single representation framework.