Resumen

ZAPATA ROTUNDO, Gerardo J  y  CALDERA, Jorge. Organizational Complexity: Approaching A Theoretical Model . Revista de Ciencias Sociales [online]. 2008, vol.14, n.1, pp.46-62. ISSN 1315-9518.

This investigation proposes a theoretical model about organizational complexity, taking the constructs cognitive complexity and relational complexity as a frame of reference. Relational complexity (Hall et al., 1967; Boisot and Child, 1999; Hall, 1996; Robbins and Coulter, 2002) is linked with differentiation and integration processes found in organizations and is explained fundamentally through the behavior and management of the organizing design variables. In turn, cognitive complexity (Perrow, 1970; Boisot and Child, 1999; Peris et al., 2001) is associated with difficulty in understanding and carrying out the most essential aspects of work performed in the organization; from this follows the presence of different types of work with differing degrees of difficulty and variety (nature of the work). The model serves as a basis for three proposals indicated in the final considerations, where a set of relationships among the constituent elements that the company adopts is presented: basic types of work, design variables (centralization and formalization), relational and cognitive complexity, leadership style and organizational form. Finally, a model is proposed to contribute to a continued understanding of organizational design and behavior, and therefore, to favor formulating new solutions for their problems.

Palabras clave : Organizational complexity; relational and cognitive complexity; basic types of work; organizational design variables.