Holding on to success: a case study in mental health care reform

This article analyzes the changes experienced by a mental health care organization in response to environmental threats and fluctuating expectations. On a general, more theoretical level, the article demonstrates how processes of environmental selection as well as organizational adaptation shape organizational forms. On a concrete, applied level, those administrative practices are articulated that can help ensure that reform efforts are successful. Administrators also must be aware of the inertial forces operating upon stable organizational forms and work to ensure that the organization remains vital and open to change.