Intraorganizational Evolution.

Intraorganizational evolution (iOE) is probably facing a two-sided development challenge. On the one hand, it needs to reinforce its identity, structuring its core concepts and methods and defining a shared research agenda. However, the problem is far from being only one of empirical nature--rather, it is the expression of underlying theoretical gaps. The conceptual core of intraorganizational evolution is still very partially developed, and attempts to complete it are likely to be take much effort in years to come. On the other hand, the impact of intraorganizational evolution research will crucially depend on its capability to establish fruitful interactions with other research perspectives. A fresh look at the evolutionary dynamics of other important phenomena, like norms and conventions, diffusion in networks, bargaining, and the evolution of contracts (Young, 1998) may result from an open dialogue between evolutionary thinking in game and organization theories. While the need to simultaneously reinforce identity and strengthen interactions with other research streams may appear as a source of conflicting strains, it also provides an incentive for innovative work.