This unit provides an introduction to the study of human behaviour in organisations through three levels of analysis – individual, team, and organisation. At the individual level students develop an understanding of the factors that influence individual behaviour and performance, such as personality, perception, learning and motivation. The team level of analysis facilitates students’ understanding of factors that influence the effectiveness of work teams. These factors include team dynamics, power, influence and interpersonal conflict.  At the organisational level students explore the impact of factors such as work design, organisational structure, culture and change on individual and team behaviour.

Organisational Behaviour (OB) is an applied social science that has practical, everyday applications for managers and non-managers.  People, and the way people are managed, are increasingly seen as important sources of sustained competitive advantage for organisations.  OB is important because it helps managers to perform the ‘people management’ dimension of managerial work more effectively.  However, OB is just as important for non-managers.  No matter what career path you choose you need to understand and apply OB theories, models and concepts.  This is because OB knowledge helps people to make sense of their workplaces and to work with and through others.