Discussion One — Differentiating The OD Profession

The profession of optimizing organizational performance is quite broad, and it encompasses several fields, practice areas, and specialties. These include industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology, organizational development, organizational psychology, organizational psychology and development (OPD), consulting psychology, change management, organizational consulting, organizational design, and management consulting. When working with clients, it’s important to distinguish yourself as an OD practitioner and to fully understand your role so that you can explain the strengths, benefits, and nuances of OD practice as opposed to similar disciplines.

In this Discussion, you identify the elements that differentiate OD from other fields.

To prepare:

• Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider what differentiates OD from other fields that work to optimize organizational performance.
• Research the various fields and disciplines associated with organizational development, improvement, and change. Think about what OD is and what it is not.

By Day 3

Post briefly summarize the various fields and disciplines associated with organizational development, improvement, and change. Then discuss what OD is and what it is not. Provide examples and resources that differentiate and distinguish OD as a unique profession. Also explain how OD professionals can work collaboratively with other practice areas to provide additional benefits to client organizations.