The Yin-Yang Military: Ambidextrous Perspectives on Change in Military Organizations

This book explores the challenge of ambidexterity in military organizations and how they can adapt to complex environments by developing organizational ambidexterity. It discusses the multiple tasks and functions of military organizations that require multi-dimensional and often contradictory skills, and how these dualities can serve as complementary forces to improve performance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 09 September 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of change processes and the formidable challenge of ambidexterity within military organizations. It explores how military institutions can enhance their adaptability and resilience in the face of complex and often unpredictable environments by cultivating organizational ambidexterity. The authors identify a wide range of multiple tasks and functions that military organizations must undertake, necessitating a diverse set of operational, technological, cultural, and social skills. Drawing an analogy to the complementary roles played by the right hand and the left hand of the body, modern military organizations have evolved beyond mere fighting machines to encompass a dual nature, engaging in both combat and peacekeeping missions as part of a single overarching mission.

The military, in its multifaceted nature, exhibits both "hot" and "cold" characteristics, functioning as a crisis management organization and a bureaucratic institution. Recognizing the inherent complementarity between these dualities, the book argues that they can be harnessed as complementary forces, akin to the yin and yang, to optimize the overall performance of these organizations. As a result, ambidextrous organizations excel at executing complex tasks and demonstrating remarkable adaptability to new challenges.

The book is organized into four distinct parts:
1. Structures and Networks: This section examines the organizational structures and networks that support ambidexterity within military organizations. It explores the role of leadership, communication, and collaboration in fostering a culture that embraces both military and civilian expertise.
2. Cultural Issues: Recognizing the importance of cultural diversity in military operations, this part explores the challenges and opportunities associated with managing cultural differences within military organizations. It examines the impact of cultural norms, values, and beliefs on decision-making, teamwork, and mission success.
3. Tasks and Roles: This section examines the specific tasks and roles that military organizations undertake, including combat, peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and counterterrorism operations. It explores the skills and competencies required for effective performance in these diverse roles and the challenges of balancing competing priorities and objectives.
4. Nations and Allies: This section examines the role of military organizations in international relations and cooperation. It explores the challenges and opportunities of working with allies, partners, and other international organizations to achieve common goals and address global security challenges.

This book appeals to scholars of military studies and organization studies, as well as professionals working for governmental or military organizations. It provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of change processes, ambidexterity, and organizational performance, and offers practical strategies for developing and sustaining ambidextrous capabilities in military organizations.

Weight: 403g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030524357
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021