Towards a framework for the elicitation of dilemmas

Area of Science:

• Management Theory
• Organizational Behavior
• Business Ethics

Background:

• Dilemma theory is applied in professional practice through the Trompenaars Hampden-Turner Dilemma Reconciliation Process(TM).
• Existing literature shows inconsistencies in the use of terms related to dilemma theory and methodology.
• The author's professional practice aims to enhance consulting rigor and contribute to theory development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extend aspects of dilemma theory and address inconsistencies in its application.
• To propose 'dilemmaism' as a new meta-level paradigm for management research.
• To introduce a more rigorous and structured method for eliciting dilemmas in complex business environments.

Main Methods:

• Critical review of existing dilemma theory and related terminology.
• Conceptual development of 'dilemmaism' as a new research paradigm.
• Exploration and application of the SPID model for dilemma elicitation.

Main Results:

• Identified inconsistencies and invalid uses of terms within dilemma theory.
• Proposed 'dilemmaism' as a novel paradigm encompassing ontological, epistemological, and methodical premises.
• Demonstrated the SPID model's utility in structuring dilemma elicitation for practical application.

Conclusions:

• The research contributes to knowledge, professional practice, and theory development in dilemma studies.
• 'Dilemmaism' offers a framework for resolving real-world business problems across multidisciplinary contexts.
• The SPID model enhances the rigor and structure of dilemma exploration in management consulting.