Question

Identify and thoroughly discuss the four types of conflict cultures, using examples.

Answer 1

There are four key types of conflict in any organization. These conflicts occur due to various differences and situations that are presented by the company and its culture. These conflicts are

Interpersonal conflicts: these conflicts arise when two or more people just don’t get along. This is not due to any system or process but could be a mismatch of personality or behavior that is incompatible. For example, if two people in a project cannot agree on their views, it gives rise to interpersonal conflicts.

Inter-dependency conflicts: when there are multiple teams working with one another and the work of one team is dependent on the work of the others then there can be inter-dependency conflict. For example, in an assembly line production system if one of the processes is not complete it causes disruption and leads to conflict with the following processes.

Process related conflicts: when an organization has multiple different processes in different stages of the development it can give rise to process related conflict. For example, lets say the finance department is old fashioned and wants paper based files but the rest of the organization is paperless, it will give rise to process related conflict between departments and employees.

Leadership conflicts: when the leadership style of the superior does not match the expectation of the subordinates it can cause leadership conflict. For example, if an experienced bureaucrat joins a start-up in a leadership position, there will likely be conflict in leadership style and the team members’ expectations.