Enhancing organizational performance by strengthening diversity and unity

Abstract

Asserts that the opposite of a rule may be true, particularly with regard to the creation of “unity in diversity” – the simultaneous strengthening of the two seemingly contradictory factors of integration and multiplicity – which will fundamentally enhance organizational performance. Common experience shows that there are plenty of diverse world views around. This multiplicity has many sources. Suggests that, in order to reap the benefits of this diversity, we need first to understand and indeed encourage it through empowerment, decentralization and self‐management. Second, we need to integrate the differences and ensure that everyone is working towards a common good under the influence of a unified company vision and a shared set of values. Argues that such a mature state of “unity in diversity” can only be realized through higher stages of individual and organizational development.

Citation

Harung, H.S. and Martens Harung, L. (1995), "Enhancing organizational performance by strengthening diversity and unity", The Learning Organization, Vol. 2 No. 3, pp. 9-21. https://doi.org/10.1108/09696479510092481