A few weeks ago, I sent a request to the list asking for advice about how to assess managers' ability to take a broad, cross-functional perspective. This cross-functional perspective might lead managers to consider cross-functional implications when making decisions (rather than staying in a functional silo), or to raise strategic-level issues during meetings, or to more effectively coordinate with other functions.
Thanks so much for all of the great ideas that you sent. I've summarized them below:
Roxanne Zolin suggested that we look at the literature on specialists versus generalists.
Jeffrey Yip pointed us to work by Roger Martin (U Toronto) on integrative thinking. He also suggested research on the boundaryless career attitude by Briscoe and colleagues (2006, Journal of Vocational Behavior).
Rich Marcy suggested exploring the leader/managerial cognition literature, particularly more systems-oriented thinking processes. Some key search terms/constructs might be: systems-thinking, causal analysis, perspective-taking, heuristics, framing, etc.
Thanks again for being such a great resource!
Amy
Amy Colbert
Assistant Professor
Department of Management & Organizations
<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Iowa</st1:placename></st1:place>
amy-colbert@Uiowa.edu
319-335-0932