Behavioral operations and the dynamics of emergence: a call for multilevel research

Purpose – This article aims to advance an emergent multilevel perspective as a useful lens for capturing the dynamics that shape behavior in real-world operational settings. Design/methodology/approach – The article adopts a conceptual approach by examining three foundational domains of behavioral operations (BO) research–inventory management, supply-chain management and productivity management–to clarify the analytical boundaries of prevailing single-level and top-down perspectives. It then illustrates the potential of an emergent multilevel lens to advance the understanding of how behavioral patterns develop over time through interaction, coordination and role dynamics across organizational levels. Findings – By reframing core domains through an emergent multilevel perspective, the article demonstrates the added explanatory power and analytical clarity this approach offers and outlines the theoretical and methodological opportunities it opens for future research. Originality/value – The article strengthens the conceptual foundations of BO by complementing existing perspectives with an emergent, interaction-driven view of behavioral dynamics. In doing so, it lays the groundwork for investigations that closely align with the multilayered nature of everyday operational activities.