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Strategic intent as a rhetorical tool of coherence

Lookup NU author(s): Professor John Sillince

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Abstract

Strategic intent is a useful concept in accounting for purpose and continuity of goals in an organization adapting to internal and external developmental pressures. Yet, extant literature on strategic intent does not account for heterogeneity of goals within an organization. Indeed, there is confusion over who possesses strategic intent. In this paper, we seek to revitalize the concept of strategic intent by exploring its potential as a rhetorical device. Based on philosophical theory of collective agency, we argue that to realize the integrative promise of strategic intent in organizations, achieving coherence between multiple intents is the most viable option. Drawing from rhetorical theories, we investigate the processes involved in diffusing intent and building coherence between multiple intents.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Mantere S, Sillince JAA

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Scandinavian Journal of Management

Year: 2007

Volume: 23

Issue: 4

Pages: 406-423

ISSN (print): 0956-5221

ISSN (electronic): 1873-3387

Publisher: Pergamon

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scaman.2007.03.002

DOI: 10.1016/j.scaman.2007.03.002

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