| dc.description.abstract | This article is a conceptual study of the learning organization, which is believed to
facilitate sustainable competitiveness. The article examines the various definitions
given to the learning organizations by various writers and the characteristics that are
pertinent in learning organizations.
A historical perspective of learning organizations is provided. A critical review and
synthesis of literature is done on the learning organization as a means to build and
maintain sustainable competitive advantage. The article examines the various theories
in creation and maintenance of competitive advantage, which include Porter's five
forces model, the resource-based view and the knowledge-based view. The usefulness
of being a learning organization as a way to respond to strategic change is highlighted.
A critical review is done of the disciplines in building the learning organizations as
propagated by Peter Senge, which other writers have also evaluated and commented
on. 'The core disciplines include personal mastery, mental models, team learning,
shared vision and systems thinking.
The article considers learning within organizations as ultimately tied to culture and
structure. Various cultural and structural aspects that promote learning organizations
are highlighted. Case studies of ..t•h. ree organizations have been u.sed to show the
application of the concept of learning organizations. The article finally provides the
research context for learning organizations and th..e expected future directions .
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