A Systematization of the Literature on Organizations with Dispersed Powers: The Need for New Management Models

Abstract

In the organizational field, one type of organization stands out from the more common: organizations with dispersed powers. The objectives of this article are to bring together the fragmented literature on organizations with dispersed powers and demonstrate the need for new governance models for such organizations. Correspondingly, we set out the characteristics of organizations with dispersed power and their management features as well as considering the current realities they face, highlighting the growing need for new governance models. Subsequently, we approach the issue of stakeholders in organizations with dispersed powers with this route put forward as a means to develop new governance models for this organizational category. The management literature abounds with studies on traditional business entities while organizations with dispersed powers have received very little attention from the academic community, primarily due to their inherent complexity.