Systemizing the organizational scenario literature using Morgan's metaphors

This paper provides an initial classification of the organizational scenario literature based on Morgan's (1986) influential treatment of the general organizational literature. The exploratory study is unique in that no classification of the scenario literature using Morgan's eight metaphors has previously been undertaken. The aim of the classification is to begin to order the scenario literature which is currently under-systematized. It is hoped that this ordering will enable consultants to better understand the many competing claims and facets of scenario work as well as when to emphasize certain aspects of the methodology (given the particular practical situation being addressed). The result of this initial classification is the ordering of 190 pieces of scenario literature themed within each of the metaphors as well as a discussion of key observations related to undertaking this classification. While this is an exploratory study, the intent is to further develop this classification for publication. It is hoped that just as Morgan's analysis opened up a whole new line of theorizing in the general organizational literature, this classification may start the same sort of development in the organizational scenario literature.