* Organizational Analysis: His work focused on understanding the structure and functioning of organizations, particularly in cross-cultural contexts. He developed the "organizational structure" framework, which analyzed the factors influencing organizational design and performance.
* Comparative Sociology: Udy explored the differences and similarities between societies, particularly in terms of their social structures, economic systems, and cultural values. He examined the impact of these factors on organizational development and change.
* Industrial Sociology: Udy's research delved into the social aspects of industrial production, focusing on topics such as labor relations, management practices, and the impact of industrialization on social structures.
Some of his notable publications include:
* "Organization of Work: A Comparative Analysis of Production among Nonindustrial Peoples" (1959): This book is considered a cornerstone of his work, examining the diversity of work organization in different cultures.
* "The Sociology of Work: A Text in the Sociology of Occupations" (1970): A comprehensive textbook on the sociology of work, covering topics like social stratification, industrial relations, and the changing nature of work.
* "Work in the Modern World: A Sociological Analysis" (1978): This book explored the social impact of industrialization and modernization on work and its organization.
His work had a significant impact on sociological thought and helped shape the development of organizational studies and comparative sociology.