Organisational Culture - MGMT 100

Flashcards covering key concepts related to organisational culture from the MGMT 100 lecture notes.

Organisational culture

A system of shared beliefs and values that develops within an organization and guides the behaviour of its members.

Strong cultures

Cultures that have a clear set of principles, values, and norms that guide members’ behaviour in the best interests of the organization.

Visible culture

The observable aspects of culture, such as dress, office layout, symbols, and ceremonies within an organization.

Invisible culture

The core values and beliefs that influence behaviour and underlie observable culture, including deeper understandings held by organization members.

Symbols

Objects, acts, or events that convey meaning about how people relate to one another and interact with their environment.

Heroes

Figures who exemplify the character and attributes of a strong culture, serving as role models for employees.

Rites and Rituals

Planned activities that reinforce organizational values, create bonds among people, and celebrate heroes.

Cultural leadership

The ability to influence culture through signals and symbols, articulating a vision that employees can believe in.

Core values

Beliefs about the right ways to behave, which influence the visible culture of an organization.

Commitment to Norms

Standards of conduct that guide people's behaviour within the organization.

What is a symbolic leader?

someone who represents and embodies the values and beliefs of an organization, influencing employees' perceptions and behaviors through symbolism and inspiration.

What is Hofstede's model?

Hofstede's model is a framework for understanding cultural differences across countries, identifying how these differences impact business practices.

What are the individual components of Hofstede's model?

The model includes five dimensions: Power Distance, Individualism vs. Collectivism, Uncertainty Avoidance, achievement vs nurturing , and Long-Term vs. Short-Term Orientation.

What is Power Distance in Hofstede's model?

the level of hierarchy and bureaucracy

What is Individualism vs. Collectivism in Hofstede's model?

This dimension measures whether individuals in a society are integrated into groups and prioritize group over individual goals or vice versa

What is Uncertainty Avoidance in Hofstede's model?

denotes how comfortable a culture is with ambiguity and uncertainty, influencing risk-taking behaviors.

What is achievement vs nurturing in Hofstede's model?

This dimension contrasts a focus on achievement, competitiveness, and ambition against a preference for cooperation, caring, and nurturing in societal values.

What is Long-Term vs. Short-Term Orientation in Hofstede's model?

This dimension indicates whether a culture focuses on future rewards or on the present and past

What is Ethnocentrism?

the belief that one’s own culture or ethnic group is superior to others, often leading to bias in business practices and interactions.

What are Ethical Issues for MNCs?

sweatshops and child labour, environmental/sustainability impact, corruption

What are Multinational Corporations (MNCs)?

companies that operate and manage production or services in one or more countries other than their home country.

What are Transnational Corporations?

companies that manage operations in multiple countries without a strong national identity, emphasizing global efficiency.

What is International Business?

refers to commercial transactions that occur across country borders, involving the exchange of goods, services, and information.