Organizational Culture

From the reading: http://www.soi.org/reading/change/culture.shtml
It's interesting to compare the statements in this article with reading from our ED 404 class, Leading Learning Organizations. I was particularly struck by the paragraph:
In other words, as groups evolve over time, they face two basic challenges: integrating individuals into an effective whole, and adapting effectively to the external environment in order to survive. As groups find solutions to these problems over time, they engage in a kind of collective learning that creates the set of shared assumptions and beliefs we call "culture."

I keep thinking of effective adaptation to the external environment. Now maybe I'm over thinking this simple phrase, but I keep thinking of Nonako and Takeuchi's presentation of the Japanese theory of Organizational knowledge. The use of tacit knowledge and bringing it back into explicit knowledge to be shared with all members of the organization. I don't think too many "western" or US organizations have effectively responded to their external environments. They have insluted themselves in their own culture without taking into effect the evolving culture outside of them. This is perhaps a sidetrack and a leap, but I do think internal culture is just as important to external culture- well, not only culture, but the change in needs, resources, values, etc...of the population.
Culture is huge!! It can be a friend or an enemy- let's call it a "frienemy". Edgar Schein defines it as customs and rights- group norms, in terms of standards and values- bringing in new members. Some of these norms can insulate and keep growth or eveolution at a minumum. Norms, values, traditions, and behavior patterns can stunt growth. Evolution and growth in organizations needs to take place- culture needs to be allow to shift and develop. Often times culture can be a stumbling block. I think as Ed. Leaders we really need to examine the culture of our institutions. Are they truly effective? Are they truly reflective of our values, norms, and beliefs? Are we using tacit knowledge? Are the rules of the game the same for everyone? Do all members believe in the mission? If not, how we change this can be crucial. I imagine we'll learn about this in future classes. Seems like it'll come up in Organizational Diagnosis and Interventions.