The phrase "oriented orientation" generally refers to an orientation that is clearly directed, deliberately established, or purposefully aligned, emphasizing a distinct focus or position.
What is the Meaning of 'Oriented Orientation'?
The term "oriented orientation" appears somewhat redundant at first glance, as the word "orientation" inherently implies a state of being directed or aligned. However, when analyzed in context, the adjective "oriented" serves to emphasize a specific, deliberate, or well-defined aspect of an existing orientation.
According to the provided reference, orientation is defined in several ways:
- The act or process of orienting or of being oriented.
- The state of being oriented.
- A usually general or lasting direction of thought, inclination, or interest (e.g., sexual orientation).
Therefore, "oriented orientation" can be understood as clarifying or reinforcing that a particular direction, state, or inclination is not merely present but has been intentionally directed, firmly established, or is clearly focused towards something.
Deconstructing the Phrase
To fully grasp "oriented orientation," it's essential to understand its constituent parts:
| Term | Definition (based on reference) | Implication in "Oriented Orientation" |
|---|---|---|
| Oriented | (Adjective) Having a specified orientation; directed towards. | Signifies a deliberate, established, or clear direction. |
| Orientation | (Noun) The act/process of orienting; the state of being oriented; a direction of thought/inclination. | The core direction, focus, or alignment. |
Interpreting "Oriented Orientation"
When combined, "oriented orientation" suggests a nuanced meaning that goes beyond a simple state of being directed. It implies:
- Deliberate Direction: The orientation is not accidental or vague but has been purposefully set.
- Established State: It refers to an orientation that has been firmly put into place or consistently maintained.
- Reinforced Focus: It highlights that a particular direction of thought, interest, or inclination is not just general but is strongly and precisely aimed.
For example, while a company might have a "customer orientation" (an inclination towards customers), an "oriented customer orientation" would suggest that this inclination is not just an idea but is actively and strategically implemented across all operations, with clear goals and processes.
Practical Insights and Examples
The use of "oriented" before "orientation" often appears in contexts where precision or an active state of direction needs to be underscored.
- Business Strategy:
- Instead of just "market orientation," which implies a general focus on the market, an "oriented market orientation" might suggest a highly structured and data-driven approach to understanding and responding to market demands.
- Project Management:
- A "goal-oriented orientation" in a project team means that the team's entire inclination and actions are not just generally aligned with goals but are actively and rigorously directed towards achieving specific objectives.
- Personal Development:
- Someone might have a "learning orientation" (an interest in learning). An "oriented learning orientation" implies a proactive and structured approach to acquiring knowledge and skills, rather than passive curiosity.
This phrasing emphasizes that the orientation itself is not merely present but is also subject to being directed or refined, making it a more active and intentional state.
