Contingency Theory: Science Or Technology?

Abstract

An answer to the research question, 'Is Contingency Theory Science or Technology?' is proposed in this paper.  Contingency theories and a contingency perspective are popular among researchers in organization theory and design.  They are based on the idea that a proper fit between contingency variables and organizational design parameters will result in the highest performance.  Does the identification of a 'contingency theory' consisting of a set contingency variable/design parameter matches constitute scientific theory or prescriptive technology?  Justifications are made for these theories as science, technology and both.  The conclusion presented is that a contingency theory is both science and technology, but often ineffective as technology because it is not applied.  General recommendations are made for researchers to increase emphasis on (1) multiple rather than single contingencies and (2) explanations of relationships.