Changes in the demographic structure of the population, social and economic development,
and changes in society in general lead to changed circumstances for individuals and
society, including in organizational sciences. In all organisations, monitoring the
internal and external environment to track opportunities and threats is a necessity
and practically part of everyday life. Adjustments in organisations dictated by changes
in the age structure of society require a comprehensive approach to the challenges
in many aspects of organisational functioning.
Age is part of an individual, but also of society. Synergy between age groups is necessary
in broader society, as well as in organizations. Organizations represent an intertwining
of individuals, in which common goals are formed and realized through mutual relationships.
Considering that this intertwining is not only substantive but also includes the individual
characteristics of each person in the group, the need for new insights and research
in this context appears to be a common reality for modern organizations.
In the line with this year’s 45th conference on the development of organizational
sciences, entitled “Organization and the Longevity Society”, we encourage cooperation
between academia and business in building bridges of synergy based on an understanding
of the importance of a long-lived society. The pillars of this year’s conference should
serve as a starting point and an opportunity to create new knowledge that will have
a place in both the scientific and applied fields. They are focused on understanding
the external environment of organizations, the labour market, a high-quality, healthy,
and safe environment for organizations, an emphasis on intergenerational integration
within organizations, communication and technological connectivity regardless of age,
and the adjustments needed to create an environment that is and will be friendly to
all, regardless of age.
Although technology seems to distance us from our social contacts in many ways, on
the other hand, there is always an opportunity to use it in a way that creates social
synergy. Especially in the context of a long-lived society, it is important to raise
awareness among organizations and individuals that awareness and information about
new developments are a necessity for all of us. People and organizations will always
be intertwined, so changes should be aimed at addressing challenges and creating social
good.
