Organizational Culture in Action A Cultural Analysis Workbook

Part I: Cultural Analysis Planning    1. Introduction: Setting the Stage    2. The Significance of the Stage: The Value of Cultural Analysis    Part II: Cultural Analysis Basics    3. Constructing the Set: The Concept of Culture    4. Understanding Roles: Cultural Elements    Part III: Cultural Data Collection and Interpretation: An Introduction to Step Four: Use Multiple Methods for Gathering    5. Method Acting: Textual Analysis    6. Method Acting: Observation    7. Method Acting: Interviews and Surveys    8. Getting Inside the Character: Interpretation    Part IV: Cultural Analysis Application: An Introduction to Step Six: Identify Positive Communication Applications    9. Casting Against Type: Diversity     10. Improvisation: Leading Change    11. An Honest Portrayal: Ethics    12. The Director’s Chair: Symbolic Leadership    13. Reading Reviews: Organizational Effectiveness    14. Opening Night: Conclusion

Biography

Gerald W. C. Driskill - University of Arkansas, Little Rock

Julien C. Mirivel - University of Arkansas, Little Rock

As a new faculty member building a course on people-centered organizational cultures, “Organizational Culture in Action” was a perfect fit. The workbook provides a guided tour to build knowledge and make application. This book is a must for anyone in leadership roles- operational, consultant, or HR seeking to make a positive culture change.

Dr. S. Lynee Willett, DBA, SPHR, sHRBP, Assistant Professor - University of Wisconsin-Stout

 

This excellent book offers a variety of deep conceptual tools to understand what makes organizations tick. The authors’ masterful hands-on approach equips readers with insights into how organizational cultures are created, how we can navigate them more skillfully, and how we might shape culture positively and as a result.

Dr. Alex Lyon, Professor, SUNY, Brockport

 

Driskill and Mirivel have updated a pivotal work for understanding organizations and their cultures based in recent and wide-ranging research.  There is no better way to understand how communication works in organizations.  They provide practical exercises and useful advice for exploring key aspects of organizational culture. 

Dr. John Meyer, Professor of Communication Studies, University of Southern Mississippi

 

While maintaining an academic focus the text offers a unique contribution through the practical exercise and checks on learning designed to stimulate and engage the reader. The format makes it an ideal companion for individuals or groups who are undertaking a cultural analysis in organizations, or for the purpose of corporate training and development.

Dr. Nicholas Jackson, University of Leeds, UK

 

Organizational culture remains one of the most compelling explanations for why people do what they do in the workplace. In this essential edition, Professors Driskill and Mirivel weave together the latest insights on culture analysis, positive communication, and ethics to offer a crucial guide for today's leaders. They make complex ideas accessible while delivering profound, actionable wisdom. I recommend this book to leaders and aspiring leaders who understand that culture is not just an abstract concept—it is a foundation of success.

Ryan S. Bisel, Ph.D. Professor of Organizational Communication, Dept.  of Communication University of Oklahoma