Defining and understanding organisational culture dimensions within the African context : a reconceptualisation of Schein's model.

Abstract

This study was undertaken due to the limited research concerning organizational culture within Africa. The purpose of this study was to explore and recognise how African organisations define and understand the different dimensions of organisational culture and how this compares to Schein's model of organisational culture. The study used a qualitative approach to gather and interpret data, resulting in a model used within Africa to understand the different organisational culture elements and applied in the institutions that contributed to the research. This study introduced organisational cultural dimensions for African countries that should be used to ensure employees and organisations remain productive, efficient and relevant. The dimensions that were found per Africa are organisational culture, strategy, and values that have further subthemes discussed. The sub-themes identified were goals, procedures, leadership, performance management, induction and communication, customer service, recognition and teamwork. These are relevant as they provide deeper context into the broad organisational dimensions identified in the study. This provides a way forward for organisations in Africa as this research provides a framework for them to understand the dimensions that would influence their organisational culture.