Western society is well embarked on the transition from the industrial to the post-industrial era, The structures of the industrial organization, in particular, are growing increasingly dysfunctional because they stand at the confluence of changes involving technology, social values, the economic environment, organizational design, job design and the practices of management. Unless their managers can adapt, these industries will be the first to be hit by crisis and massive dislocation. However, theoretical and practical studios in ‘ socio-tochnical systems ’ under way in England. Norway and the United States during the last 20 years, suggest ways in which production organizations can fit themselves to the new characteristics inherent in the post-industrial field. In such a modified environment, jobs will be characterized by greater autonomy, adaptability, variety and participation. In return, workers will offer a higher degree of commitment to the job and the organization. Several examples and case studies are cited to support and illustrate the socio-technical approach to organizational design.