Not so i-deal: a critical review of idiosyncratic-deals theory and research

We put i-deals under the microscope and critically review its definition, theory and empirical evidence with the aim of provoking debate about this intriguing idea. We scrutinize definitions of i-deals, highlighting confusing aspects and critique its features. We assess the offered theoretical mechanisms linking i-deals to putative outcomes, and consider whether ideals provide a novel lens to understanding the employee-organization relationship. We consider how i-deals research findings could – rather than showing the benefits of i-deals – be interpreted as reflecting how i-deals may damage employment relations and unit-level productivity. Finally, we identify problems with the ways i-deals have been measured and raise concerns about the research designs employed in empirical studies.