Organizational Adaptation Under Goal Multiplicity: Toward an Integration of Dominant Coalition and Problemistic Search Theories

Two of the most influential sub-theories in the behavioral theory of the firm are the theories of the dominant coalition and problemistic search. We argue that the time is ripe for linking these two largely separately developed theories. Organizations increasingly face goal multiplicity as they are compelled to, for example, pursue diverse “social” objectives and engage with a broader array of stakeholders. Simultaneously, increasing environmental dynamism and uncertainty are prompting changes in organizational goals and their salience, and generating ambiguity on goal attainment. New goals as well as changing goals may shake up existing coalitions, requiring the inclusion of new members and renewed bargaining among incumbents. We flesh out these arguments and advance an agenda to advance the proposed integration between theories of the dominant coalition and problemistic search.