¹Schulich School of Business, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Abstract

This paper proposes a preliminary framework outlining external and intra-organizational factors that contribute to the construction of organizational identity. Organizational identity is a critical organizational perception that guides organizational members' interpretation of the issues facing the organization. Although much is written about organizational identity and its effects on organizations and organizational members, little is known about how organizational identity is formed. Previous literature suggests that organizational identity, while being durable, is also dynamic and flexible, which indicates the opportunity for organizations to construct a strong organizational identity, which will likely lead to competitive advantage.