In an evolutionary view of organizations, how do changes typically occur over time?

• A. Through selection of effective practices over time.
• B. Planned top-down redesign only.
• C. Through random changes without adaptation.
• D. Through external coercion only.

Answer: (A)

From an evolutionary view, organizational change happens through variation, selection, and retention of practices that work. Teams try different ways of delivering services, organizing staff, and using resources. those approaches that produce better outcomes, fit the environment, or gain legitimacy are more likely to be adopted, refined, and spread within the organization and across similar organizations. Over time, this process gradually shifts routines and structures toward more effective practices. While planned redesign or external pressure can influence change, the hallmark of the evolutionary view is that improvements are selected and retained because they work, not because they were imposed from above or chosen at random.