Organisational Culture

Question 1

Define Organisational Culture

Answer 1

System of shared beliefs and values that guide the behaviour of organisation members.

Question 2

What are the 4 types of Organisational Culture?

Answer 2

1) Clan: internal focus, values flexibility, doing things together.
2) Adhocracy: external focus, flexibility, innovation
3) Hierarchy: internal focus, structure and control, doing things right.
4) Market: external focus, structure and control, getting the job done + competition.

Question 3

What are the 3 levels of Organisational Culture

Answer 3

1) Observable Artefacts: Physical manifestations such as manner of dress, awards, rituals, etc.
2) Espoused Values: Explicitly stated values and norms preferred by the organisation.
3) Basic Assumptions: Non-observable, core beliefs employees have about their organisation.

Question 4

Examples of these 3 levels in Google?

Answer 4

1) Casual dress code, facilities that encourage fun.
2) Innovation as part of an adhocracy, members are highly talented and well looked after.
3) Many of these artefacts and espoused values create an environment our of the ordinary. Magnifies the innovation that occurs in an adhocracy. Employees work long hours.

Question 5

What are the 3 perspectives on a high performance culture?

Answer 5

1) Strength: Strength of a corporate culture is related to long-term financial performance.
2) Adaptation: Most effective cultures help orgs anticipate and adapt to environmental changes.
3) Fit: culture aligning with business context.

Question 6

What are some mechanisms for culture change?

Answer 6

1) Formal statements
2) Slogans and Sayings
3) Stories, Legends and Myths
4) Role modelling, training and coaching
5) Physical Design
6) Rewards, titles, promotions and bonuses
7) Organisational goals and performance criteria
8) Measurable and controllable activities
9) Org structure
10) Org systems and procedures
11) Leader Reactions to crises