The phenomenon of organisational culture: conceptual approaches and research methodology

Abstract

Introduction. Organisational culture is an invisible but powerful factor that determines behaviour, values and norms in any organisation. In the Ukrainian context, where traditions, mentality and historical experience are intertwined with modern challenges, understanding the essence of organisational culture is of particular importance. Over the past decades, there has been a growing interest in studying organisational culture as a multifaceted phenomenon that encompasses symbols, rituals, communications, informal rules and value orientations. At the same time, there is no single approach to its analysis: different scientific schools offer their own concepts, models and methods for studying this phenomenon. This diversity of approaches is due to the complexity of culture itself, its dynamic nature and the influence of the external environment.

Research purpose. To substantiate the key theoretical foundations and practical aspects of organisational culture, which will allow for a deeper understanding of its role in the development of organisations and society as a whole.

Research methods. Analysis of scientific publications, systematic approach, comparison methods, critical analysis and conceptual generalisation.

Results. A systematic review of the main conceptual approaches to the analysis of organisational culture, covering both classical and modern theories, has been carried out. The key elements of organisational culture — symbols, rituals, values, communications and informal rules — have been identified. Their role in shaping the internal atmosphere of an organisation has been emphasised. Attention has been paid to methodological research tools, in particular qualitative and quantitative methods, which allow for a comprehensive assessment of the state of organisational culture and determination of its impact on management effectiveness.

Prospects. Further research on organisational culture will involve expanding theoretical approaches, in particular by integrating interdisciplinary knowledge from sociology, anthropology, management and psychology. Particular attention will be paid to studying the dynamics of changes in organisational culture in the context of digitalisation, globalisation and the impact of modern technologies on communication processes. These prospects open up space for further research that will deepen the understanding of the role of organisational culture in the development strategies of both individual organisations and society as a whole.