The development of theories from the analysis of the organisation: case studies by the patterns of behaviour Mariano Nieto Universidad de Leo Ân, Leo Ân, Spain Waldo Pe Ârez Universidad Polite Âcnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain Introduction In recent years, we have witnessed a growing interest in the issue of the methodology applied to the study of organisations, as is shown by the creation of specific sections in scientific magazines, monographics and research forums. This greater attention is due partly to the requirements put forth by the new perspective theories that have highlighted the need to develop, parallel to the theoretical framework, new research methods catering to specific requirements. For example, the resource-based view suggests that the competitive advantage is sustained in the strategic assets, normally intangible and surrounded by isolating mechanisms, such as causal ambiguity which makes them difficult to observe. As a consequence, the development of this precise focus or methodology able to detect and analyse elements that, like these assets, are hidden in a some deliberate way. On the other hand, it has been pointed out that the research carried out by the organisations lack, rigour in the foundations of the question researched, although very formalised models are used as a contrast to the hypothesis, and the percentage of variance explained is high. An adaptation of the cases is presented in this study, useful for those who study organizations in general, as well as for a certain focus on management, such as the resource-based view. Finally, due to its dynamic nature, the investigation of determined processes such as the accumulation of knowledge in the core of the company, can require the study of the organisation during long periods of time, through the use of diverse sources of evidence, quantitative and qualitative, as well as employing multiple analysis techniques. In such cases, the study of cases by the patterns of behaviour shapes a research strategy that combines longitudinal and transversal tests and maintains coherence with the objectives; criteria employed and evidence gathered with time for each case. It is also an ideal framework for the resolution of conflicts between the research techniques used, ensuring its convergence. The study of cases using patterns of behaviour is efficient for the formulation of the hypothesis and the elaboration of the theoretical models. At the same time, the results obtained maintain a singular harmony with the previous theoretical framework. In this way, the accumulation of scientific knowledge is guaranteed. Another important aspect is that it does not discard the later use of other methods and techniques, on the contrary, it complements the posterior statistic verification of the emergent model. Therefore, the results of the investigation will often be the starting point for another anlysis aimed at contrasting the hypothesis. In the following epigraph the cases of patterns of behaviour will be characterised. Then the stages to follow in the research, as well as steps and norms to be taken into account for each, will be specified followed by a discussion on the generalisation and applicability of the method and finalizing with a summary and conclusions. Characterisation of case studies by patterns of behaviour The primary objective is to carry out an intensive analysis of certain selected examples, by means of a case study, in order to achieve a clear and astute understanding of the studied matter and to aid in setting out hypothesis to guide future research. Three aspects stand out (Ghauri et al., 1995): 1 the contrast of hypothesis becomes secondary; The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at http://www.emerald-library.com [ 723 ] Management Decision 38/10 [2000] 723±733 # MCB University Press [ISSN 0025-1747] Keywords Methodology, Case studies, Individual behaviour, Organizational theory Abstract This study presents an adaptation of case studies denominated by the patterns of behaviour, an ideal methodology for the development of theories explaining the organisation and its integrants' behaviour. In comparison with other alternatives, best results are obtained in the research of dynamic and complex processes that require analysis during a prolonged period of time, multiple sources of evidence, both quantitative and qualitative, and diverse analysis techniques, such as training and organizational culture. Its application also achieves to lay the foundations of the models and to make explicit the logic underlined in the hypothesis. This account is structured as follows. After an introduction, the case studies are characterized by patterns of behaviour before pointing out the stages of its application. Next, the possibility of generalizing the findings and the role of the methodology in the development of the theories in the organisation is discussed: finalising with a summary and conclusions.