System Dynamics Knowledge of how organizations evolve and develop over time is also a component of the core knowledge required for success as an OD practitioner. This area includes knowledge related to how planned organization change events lead to success or why failure occurs. As a successful OD practitioner, it is crucial one understands the social, political, economic, and personal forces that led to the emergence and development of OD, including the key thought leaders and the values underlying their writings and actions. Becoming an Organization Development Practitioner Becoming capable and successful in the art and science of OD requires advanced knowledge and skills such as those mentioned above. Attaining the knowledge needed to practice the skill, of course, is crucial.
Many paths are available and include formal academic multi-year degree programs.
Other approaches include completing an array of OD workshops and seminars requiring travel to various locations around the globe. Lately, however, OD education has become available via the world wide web. Online education facilitated by seasoned OD practitioners is growing fast in popularity. Regardless of the means one utilizes to acquire Organization Development competence, years of fulfilling work lie ahead as the rate of global transformation continues at dizzying speeds. The OD professional lives the life of change agent, and will continue to contribute to the well being of individuals, groups, organizations, and societies in the years to come.