Understanding Organizational Culture: Layers of Analysis Through Cultural Frameworks

Organizational culture is a complex and nuanced construct that, like any culture, operates on multiple layers. Accurately understanding and analyzing these layers is crucial for any organization looking to thrive in today's competitive environment. Drawing parallels from historical and cultural studies, this article aims to delve into the layers of cultural analysis with a focus on understanding organizational culture, as outlined by Ed Schein in his seminal work, "Organizational Culture and Leadership."

The Layers of Cultural Analysis in Understanding Organizational Culture

According to Schein, the layers of cultural analysis in organizational culture can be distinguished based on their visibility and the depth of understanding required. These layers are analogous to the layers found in archaeological or cultural studies, offering insights into the underlying values, beliefs, and practices that sustain an organizational culture.

Visible Cultural Artifacts

The top level of cultural analysis is comprised of visible cultural artifacts, which are tangible aspects of an organization that can be perceived and experienced by the senses. These artifacts include symbols, rituals, heroes, and the physical environment. For instance, think of the MesoAmerican pyramids as visible cultural artifacts. Just as these structures can be seen and touched, a company's branding, logos, corporate headquarters, and office layouts are visible cultural artifacts that reflect the values and mission of the organization.

Ritual Activities

The middle level of cultural analysis involves ritual activities. These are the behaviors that members of the organization engage in on a regular basis, which may not be visible to outsiders but are known and practiced within the organization. Just as the Meso Americans conducted human sacrifices as a part of their ritual activities, modern organizations have their own rituals, such as board meetings, annual conventions, and team-building exercises. These activities, while seemingly insignificant to external observers, play a crucial role in shaping the behavior and attitudes of employees within the organization.

Beliefs and Values (VABEs)

The bottom level of cultural analysis is the Beliefs and Values (VABEs) that underpin the organization. These are the deeper, often unconscious, beliefs and values that drive behavior and are rarely explicitly stated or visible. Schein refers to these as the foundational elements that explain why people behave the way they do within the organization. For example, the belief that "the gods demand human blood to make it rain and for the land to be fertile" symbolized by the Meso American human sacrifices, this can be likened to the belief in the importance of innovation and agility as values driving an entrepreneurial organization. These VABEs are the true drivers of organizational behavior and are often difficult to observe directly but are crucial for effective change management.

The Application of Cultural Analysis in Organizational Settings

Cultural analysis in organizational settings is not limited to these three layers but can be extended to include broader meta-analysis. Take A Song of Humanity, a book that provides a science-based alternative to religious scriptures, which can offer a more nuanced understanding of cultural beliefs and values across different communities. In a similar vein, understanding the deeper VABEs (Beliefs and Values) in an organization can provide insights into the underlying drivers of behavior. For instance, the belief that "the gods demand human blood to make it rain and for the land to be fertile" can be replaced with an understanding that innovation and adaptability are essential for survival in a rapidly changing market.

Conclusion: Embracing the Multidimensionality of Organizational Culture

Embracing the multidimensionality of organizational culture requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account all the layers of cultural analysis. By understanding the visible artifacts, ritual activities, and underlying VABEs, organizations can better align their strategies, values, and behaviors, leading to more effective communication, collaboration, and ultimately, success. Whether through branding, rituals, or VABEs, the layers of organizational culture provide rich opportunities for meaningful transformation and growth.

By studying the cultural analysis of organizations through these layers, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of cultural phenomena and the importance of understanding this complexity for successful organizational management. Whether examining MesoAmerican rituals or contemporary business practices, the insights gained from cultural analysis are invaluable in shaping the future of organizations.