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Understanding the influence of organizational culture and group dynamics on organizational change and learning

Colleen Lucas (Calgary Health Region, Calgary, Canada)
Theresa Kline (University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada)

The Learning Organization

ISSN: 0969-6474

Article publication date: 18 April 2008

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between organizational culture, group dynamics, and organizational learning in the context of organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was used to examine cultural and group level factors that potentially influence groups' learning in the context of organizational change.

Findings

Major themes that emerged as influencing organizational change and learning were a culture of mistrust, changing psychological contracts, differing occupational cultures, power differential between groups, and leadership.

Practical implications

When initiating change efforts, an organization needs to assess and understand what aspects of the culture can be facilitators or hindrances and what aspects of the group structures the organization can use to facilitate learning.

Originality/value

This study extends research in the area of group and organizational learning by identifying group and cultural phenomena that, when manifested, had significant influence on group members' response to organizational change and their capacity to learn. In particular, this study highlights the need to be aware of the characteristics unique to the organization and its culture.

Keywords

Citation

Lucas, C. and Kline, T. (2008), "Understanding the influence of organizational culture and group dynamics on organizational change and learning", The Learning Organization, Vol. 15 No. 3, pp. 277-287. https://doi.org/10.1108/09696470810868882

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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