Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Order and complexity co-exist in organisations. The tension arising from this co-existence plays a pivotal role in influencing organisational value and sustainability. This study seeks to examine this unique relationship between organisational tension and value creation in the context of public sector organisations in Singapore. Tension is measured by the spread between order and complexity; whereas value is measured by a proxy of the Singapore Quality Award score in the public sector organisations. The findings corroborate the role for organisational tension such that an increase generates more value for the organisation; and identify the key levers that drive organisational tension in Singapore public sector organisations. These findings are reinforced by literature reviews, and offers insights that Singapore public sector organisations can apply to generate greater organisational value. These insights will help public sector organisations deal more effectively with wicked problems, and resolve complex issues so as to remain sustainable in a global economy and be successful in the longer term.