Question

Symbols of culture are called artifacts. Artifacts are the most visible and accessible level of culture. These include behaviors, stories, rituals (everyday practices that are repeated frequently), and symbols (e.g., company logos, company colors). For example, the president of a company volunteering at Habitat for Humanity is an artifact of culture. An example of symbols as an artifact of culture is Ashford University’s shield that serves as our logo and is printed on transcripts, diplomas and letterhead paper. describing the culture of either your current or past place of employment.

provide examples of and address each of the following topics:

Observable artifacts

Espoused values (These are what organizational members say they value, like ethical practice.)

Enacted values (These are reflected in the way individuals actually behave.)

In addition, describe how each item listed above impacts the values and culture of the organization.

Answer 1

Schein lists out four aspects of organisational culture:

• Observable artefacts- those that are physically obvious
• Espoused values- what organizational members say they value, like ethical practice
• Enacted values -reflected in the way individuals actually behave
• Basic assumptions- core beliefs that drive behaviour

I worked for a healthcare start-up with round 50 employees. The following are some of the observations

Observable artefacts

• Symbols -logos are printed everywhere including brochures, bills, t-shirts etc
• Organisational language and Interpersonal relationships

• The culture is very family oriented and friendly;. Employees interact among them in friendly and personal way
• Senior leaders sit with us for lunch , at times
• The dress code is smart casuals

• Ceremonious and rituals

• High performing sales men are celebrated every month with rewards and gifts
• Birthdays of employees are celebrated with attendance from top level employees

Espoused values (These are what organizational members say they value, like ethical practice.)

• Customer first attitude
• The organisation clearly states that it follows a customer first attitude. Any query and need from the customer is addressed with utmost priority

Enacted values (These are reflected in the way individuals actually behave.)

• Modesty- there is a humbleness in employee interactions whether it be with customers or among themselves e.g. in brainstorming. Senior leaders listen to juniors with utmost sincerity
• Risk taking- being a start-up the company encourages risk taking and innovation, failures are acceptable