Organisational Behaviour.(Book review)

Organisational Behaviour, Margie Parikh & Rajen Gupta, ISBN: 9780070153196, Price: 495

Organisational Behaviour by Margie Parikh and Rajen Gupta is an exceptional book in many aspects. This book presents Indian examples, ideas and cases which match international standards of writing management books with very contemporary style of presentation. The book is different from other books by Indian authors as it has reversed the trend and has presented western perspectives with Indian insights.

The key highlights include features like Lead Story, Running Features Strands, More on This, Field Assignments, OB in the News and OB on the Internet, Watch Movies, Read Books, Know Yourself, Endnotes, OB scenario, Real world Case and Online Support.

The book carries a vision and translates it to the readers in the form of a model that tries to put 'managing' and 'leading for effectiveness' as central concerns. The Lead Stories given at the beginning of each chapter to set the tone for the major themes(s) covered in the respective chapter resemble the Opening Cases given in other renowned books in the area. Running Feature Strands include figures, tables and blue boxes to discuss concepts, numerical details of the concepts and small caselets of additional information.

The book is divided into four modules. The time-tested pattern of understanding OB at a macro as well as micro level by dividing it into individual, group and organisational blocks is meticulously used in the book. A uniform and structured approach of handling each module and each chapter within the modules gives a well organised look and feel to the book and mitigates the risk of leaving the reader confused at any stage of learning. The Lead Story is a unique feature and is very much in synch with the concepts discussed later in the chapter. The same synergy with the essential deliverables of every topic is maintained and strengthened by concluding each with the 'OB Scenario'.

One most noteworthy feature of the book is that it has very honestly and genuinely made an effort to bring into light the similarities and differences in Western and Indian perspective towards various theories and concepts of organisational behaviour. Due to this book is completely free from academic colonialism.

The Real World Cases are very elaborate especially the Dena Bank Case, VDS Case, Ready Mix Cement Plant case and so on. Cases and study material are well researched and are presented in a natural and lucid language. The book is a real exemplification of Indian thoughts with a global feel and is extremely helpful and insightful for students, professionals and executives.

Himanshi Tiwari

Asst. Professor, HR area

Birla Institute of Management Technology [BIMTech]