“Exploring the Culture of Your College: A Discussion on the Benefits and Limitations of the Culture Theories Lens”

As an administrator at a college, understanding the culture of the organization is crucial in order to effectively lead and make informed decisions. The culture theories lens, as described in Bolman and Deal’s “Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and Leadership,” provides a framework for analyzing and understanding organizational culture. In this essay, I will discuss how the following guiding questions, based on the culture theories lens, have helped me to better understand my organization and its culture:

1. Describe the culture of your organization and whether cultural differences exist within the various units of your organization.

Answering this question has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the overall cultural climate of the college. It has helped me to identify the shared values, beliefs, and norms that exist within the organization and whether there are any cultural differences between the various units. This understanding is crucial in order to navigate and navigate any potential conflicts that may arise between units.

2. How does your organization develop consensus on mission, tasks, and goals?

By examining how consensus is developed within the organization, I have been able to understand the power dynamics at play and the role that culture plays in decision making. This has helped me to understand the ways in which the organization’s mission, tasks, and goals are shaped and prioritized, as well as the influence of cultural values on these processes.

3. What is your role within the organization and how is this different from your actual job description?

Examining my role within the organization has helped me to understand the ways in which cultural norms and expectations shape my responsibilities and the ways in which I interact with others in the organization. This understanding has allowed me to more effectively navigate the expectations and power dynamics within the organization.

The culture theories lens has several strengths for gaining a deeper understanding of organizational culture. It provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing the cultural climate of an organization, including the shared values, beliefs, and norms that exist within the organization. It also allows for a deeper understanding of the ways in which culture shapes decision making, power dynamics, and organizational structure.

However, there are also some limitations to the culture theories lens. It may be difficult to accurately assess the cultural climate of an organization, as culture is often implicit and intangible. Additionally, the lens may not provide a complete picture of the organization, as it focuses primarily on cultural factors and may not take into account other factors such as structural or political factors.

In conclusion, the culture theories lens has been invaluable in helping me to better understand my organization and its culture. By examining the cultural climate of the organization, the ways in which consensus is developed, and my role within the organization, I have been able to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which culture shapes my experiences as an administrator at the college.

Reference: Bolman, L.G., & Deal, T. (2021). Reframing organizations: Artistry, choice, and leadership (7th ed.). San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons.