What is organizational culture - Essay Example

Basically, “organizational culture refers to a system of shared meaning held by members that distinguishes the organization from other organizations,” Robbins, 1993, p. 602). Upon a closer look, it can be noted that the system of shared meaning is comprised of certain characteristics that are valued by the organization in its operations. An organization’s culture develops over a long period and it is deeply rooted in certain values to which all the employees are committed. In different companies, it can be noted that there are various forces that are in existence that are meant to reinforce and maintain a given culture.

In other words, the organisation’s culture plays a pivotal role in shaping the behaviour of the people working in that particular company. The culture of the organization also plays an important role in creating member identity where employees are in a position to identify with the whole organization rather than their job positions or nature of profession. Emphasis is put on the aspect of collective identity not individualism since the aim of every organization is to achieve certain goals and objectives.

This can only be possible if there is synergy of the efforts of all people employed in this particular organisation. The aspect of organizational culture is also used to exercise control in the organization where rules and regulations are used to shape the behaviour of the employees so that they conform to the expected standards at their workplace. Another important aspect related to the issue of organizational culture is that work activities in the organization are organized around groups rather than individuals.

The success of any organization is mainly determined by its culture since it shapes the behaviour of the employees who are responsible for executing different tasks that are designed towards the attainment of the set goals and objectives of the company. References Robbins, S.P. (1993). Organisational behaviour: Concepts, controversies and applications.6th Edition. NJ: Prentice Hall.