Christi Olson picture The mission of the Organization Development Network is to be a leader in advancing the theory and practice of OD. Since organizations are everywhere, by definition OD is everywhere. The theory and practice of OD informs and infuses all organizations. Professionals across different fields have discovered the value of OD in their work. OD is alive and well, though perhaps hidden in plain sight.

There are serious issues and challenges facing organizations today—globalization, a multicultural and multigenerational work force, aging, economics, social movements, technology—and we have serious work to tend to. Massive shifts are challenging our existing systems and processes. As a field and as professionals, how prepared are we to deal with these shifts? What are the emerging models for organizations, leadership, strategy, change management, and social systems for our 21st century?

These are questions that matter. The Organization Development Network is uniquely positioned to bring new perspectives and solutions to these issues. This is our opportunity and our time. Let’s face it, it’s a mess out there. And you know what? We love a good mess! We’re OD professionals. This is what we are trained to do.

So what does the road ahead look like for the Organization Development Network? We are going to be mission and market focused. We will move “upstream,” between the emerging market space and the mainstream, to partner with associations and individuals whose strategies fit with ours. We are becoming a learning resource for professionals. We are upgrading our web infrastructure so that the OD Network is a destination for sharing information, products, and services. We will continually innovate by pushing the boundaries of OD practice and theory.

We must reclaim our work of OD and our leadership in the field. We need to clarify and communicate OD Network’s relevance and value to our members, partners, customers, clients, and bosses—so that the field, and the work we do, is not hidden but in plain sight.

So our energies, talents, conversations and actions must be in the service of our mission—to be a leader in advancing the theory and practice of OD. Let’s share constructively. Let’s keep a fierce focus on the prize. And let’s walk together, as an organization and a collective, into our future.