Marginality - A Neglected Dimension in the Design of Work

Abstract

In this article the author examines the relationship between marginality and work design. He discusses the definition of marginality in a social context and examines how individuals who fit this definition have been shown to be valuable to organizations. The aim of his paper is to determine if certain jobs are more marginal than others, if certain personalities are more oriented towards marginality than others and if people with these personalities excel in marginal job roles. He notes that if this is true organizations should try to match marginal people with marginal job positions.