Journal of IOA: Communication Theory for Ombuds

Joshua Canzona, Associate Ombuds at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is the author of a new article in the latest issue of the Journal of the International Ombuds Association. The paper suggests that Ombuds will benefit from communication theories related to organizational dynamics, uncertainty, and power relationships. The full article, "Communication Theory in the Ombuds Context: A Resource for Practitioners," is now available online.

Here is the abstract:

This paper contributes to the organizational ombuds toolkit for reflection and practice by canvasing and assessing the usefulness of several theories within the discipline of communication studies. The theories are organized using a tripartite framework based on significant themes in ombuds practice: (1) Organizations and Organizing (2) Uncertainty and (3) Power Relationships. Emerging from daily practice, these themes represent the experience of office visitors who find themselves approaching the ombuds because they are navigating uncertainty across the landscape of an organization shaped by a variety of power structures. After the introduction of each theme, included theories will be described individually prior to suggestions for application in the ombuds context using brief case studies. The goal is to help ombuds practitioners think of themselves as both conflict management specialists and communication specialists as well.

(JIOA 2025.)

Related posts: University of North Carolina School of the Arts Names First Ombuds; University of North Carolina Adds an Associate Ombuds.