The Systematic Psychodynamic Multidimensional Organizational Assessment Questionnaire: Protocol for a Development and Validation Study.

BACKGROUND

Systems psychodynamics provide valuable insights into organizational development. However, to date, instruments that can reliably assess organizations based on systems psychodynamic theories are scarce. The Systematic Multidimensional Organizational Assessment (SyMOA) is a qualitative instrument that provides an in-depth systems psychodynamic analysis of organizational dynamics using a semistructured interview guide. To complement the method, a standardized, quantitative self-assessment questionnaire will be developed and validated.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop and psychometrically validate an instrument for assessing organizational dynamics based on the SyMOA diagnostic system. The questionnaire is intended to provide a scientifically grounded yet practical diagnostic tool applicable in both research and corporate practice. The findings aim to contribute to the advancement of systems psychodynamic theory and to serve as a foundation for evidence-based interventions in organizational change processes.

METHODS

The study follows a multistage development and validation process. First, the SyMOA instrument will be transformed into a questionnaire battery, and the items will be evaluated by experts (expert validity). The items will be tested through factor and item analyses by an online panel (n=150) and iteratively refined. Test-retest reliability will subsequently be assessed in a separate sample (n=150). Finally, factorial and discriminant validity will be examined in a larger validation sample (n=800).

RESULTS

As of February 2026, a first draft of 158 items has been developed based on dimension 1 of the SyMOA framework. The draft has undergone an expert review process with 2 experts in psychodynamics, who provided feedback on content validity and conceptual alignment. Approximately 20% of the items have been revised to improve clarity and theoretical precision. Data collection using a panel started in May 2025 and concluded in late August 2025, with iterative item analysis conducted thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will evaluate the methodological robustness and usability of a questionnaire-based operationalization of systems psychodynamic organizational diagnostics. The anticipated findings are intended to guide further instrument development, normative calibration, and the responsible application of systems psychodynamic approaches in organizational research and practice.