- I thought the different definitions of organizational culture from individuals on LinkedIn showed how complex and interconnected it is to understand this concept (and to make meaning of it). This article touched upon the importance of having a general understanding of organizational culture to change, preserve, or analyze it. This reading made me wonder if the “approach” to understanding organizational culture needs to be a standard definition OR if we can identify key elements to it (with a ranking of importance depending on how that organization functions). When I was reading all of the different perspectives on what organizational truly is, I saw how they all fit in and were important in some way. I do not think it is just one of these things. By looking at the purpose, mission, and goals of an organization, the approach to understanding the organizational culture can be through all the definitions mentioned in the reading. I am interested to look at a specific organization and apply these definitions. Then see how they are interconnected and the power each one holds.
In the reading “Why diversity matters”, I became interested in other forms of diversity and how they promote or detract growth. The author mentioned that age, sexual orientation, and experience also can “bring some level of competitive advantage”, but I am wondering if socioeconomic plays a role in diversity in a company. Does a person with a different socioeconomic background bring different and useful perspectives to the table? Is this even a valid category of “diversity”?
3.
“Organizational culture is the sum of values and rituals which serve as ‘glue’ to integrate the members of the organization.” — Richard Perrin
This definition sparked some questions for me. Almost all organizations have some values and beliefs that are publicized and promoted. To have an organizational culture that is diverse, wouldn’t it be normal to not abide by the same belief systems or values? I think in some cases conflict is good and can lead to a progressive change. Also, why would a culture of likeminded people be encouraged when statistics show that diversity leads to greater production. I understand values that embrace respect, but what about deeper values or rituals? I also want to know what extent these values and rituals have on an individual’s membership into a specific culture. Do individuals only carry these values at work or are they expected to maintain them in all parts of their life? What happens if someone disagrees or breaks these values? Additionally, who decides these values? I think these elements to organizational culture can be meaningless and I do not think it is the most important thing to “glue” people together.