A Learning Organization...

· Is not a label but a philosophy to embrace;

· Nurtures new and expansive patterns of thinking;

· Sees reality objectively;

· Has the capacity to multilaterally create and focus upon a shared picture of the future;

· Has the ability for a team to synergistically produce extraordinary results through coordinated action;

· Is a workplace safe for thinking;

· Gives rewards for risk-taking...without intelligent risks, success becomes impossible;

· Is a powerful link between personal mastery and organizational success;

· Creates empowered teams that share, grow, and learn together;

· Has a full awareness of the power and relevance of “systems thinking”;

· Results in changes in our knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors;

· Enhances an organization’s capacity for innovation and growth;

· Turns crisis into opportunities;

· Has a norm energy, passion for the future, and capacity to take risks;

· Frequently asks “What if....” questions;

· Will envision possibilities and alternative scenarios;

· Will be looking for people excited about thinking through all aspects of “what is” at the present and “what could be” in the future.

(Jones, 1998)

Source : Doris “Katey” Walker,Extension Specialist.Family Resources and Public Policy. Kansas State University

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