Grounded Theory and Organizational Research* PATRICIA YANCEY MARTIN BARRY A. TURNER Grounded theory is an inductive, theory discovery me tho do log^^ that allows the researcher t o develop a theoretical account of the general features of a topic while simultaneously grounding the account in empirical observations or data (Glaser & Strauss, 1967). This article explicates the utility of a grounded theory approach to research on work organizations. Following a general introduction to the grounded theory method, the authors'review of the organizational literature using grounded theory illustrates the variety of issues and topics studied through this approach. The authors describe andexplain specific strategiesfor conducting grounded theory research in and on organizations, including note taking and note writing, concept discovery, and concept definition and preliminary elaboration of theory. Throughout the article emphasis is placed on grounded theoryk ability tofacilitate understanding and to identify desirable improvements in work contexts. Work organizations are complex entities that operate in divergent and often con- flicting ways (Clegg & Dunkerly, 1979). Therefore, organizational researchers and consultants should value research that produces a multifaceted picture and an analysis of the dynamics occurring both within and across hierarchical levels. As indicated by Alderfer and Smith (1982), The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science Volume 22, Number 2, pages 141-157. Copyright @ 1986 by NTL Institute. we suggest that research methods must incorporate the complexities of the or- ganizational context-rather than ignore or simplify them-to produce accurate or *Theauthors thank Gordon Sutton, Nik Pidgeon, Diane Blum Norton, and two anonymous JABS reviewers for helpful comments on earlier drafts of this article. Porricio Yoncey Morrin is a professor of social work and an affilioredprofessor of sociology at the Florido Store Universiy, Tollohossee. Florido 32306. Barry A. Turner is0 reader of sociology, head All rights of reproduction in any form reserved. ofthe department of sociology, and dean offaculties ISSN: 0021-8863. or the Universiryof Exeter. Exeter. Devon. England.