Dimensions of Culture (Scenario)
Todd works for SeaLan Tech, a small environmental consulting firm that has just been purchased by Zerex, Inc., a large biomedical research organization. The work environment at SeaLan had always been friendly and cooperative; people worked in teams and were encouraged to take risks. However, after meeting with the management of the new parent company, Todd believes there are considerable differences between the organizational cultures of Zerex and SeaLan. He is concerned that the new company will eliminate SeaLan's old culture, and he does not like the prospects.
-If you asked Todd to define the term organizational culture, he would probably say it is __________.
A) the formal rules of an organization
B) the nationality of the workers in the company
C) a system of shared meaning
D) a system that reflects diversity and respect for differences
E) the strategic focus of an organization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Organizational culture refers to a system of shared meaning within an organization that shapes its behavior and attitudes. It includes the values, beliefs, norms, and practices that are shared by members of the organization. Todd's concern about the impact of Zerex's culture on SeaLan's culture is an example of how culture can affect the behavior and attitudes of employees in an organization. The other answer choices (A, B, D, and E) either don't accurately reflect the concept of organizational culture or are too narrow or specific to apply to this scenario.