Qualitative meta-synthesis of learning organizations and continuous learning and its effects on a small business organization

Abstract

Organizations, large and small, are faced with adversity when trying to remain competitive in their respective industries. With new information constantly infiltrating the marketplace, organizations need to become flexible and be able to adapt to stay relevant. Change is not always easy, though. The purpose of this qualitative meta-synthesis study identified requirements and barriers present within an organization when trying to create a continuous learning environment. Previous studies and articles of topics relating to this study were compiled and analyzed in order to find similarities and/or differences in what this 'environment' looks like within different organizations. Common themes were present between the majority of the articles, including working toward a common goal, collaboration, innovation and adaptation, and constant change or transformation.