Cultural Web Model: Analyzing and Shaping Organizational Culture

Introduction

The Cultural Web Model, developed by Gerry Johnson and Kevan Scholes in 1992, is a framework used in organizational management to understand and analyze a company’s culture. The model helps in identifying what drives a company and can be used to align its culture with its strategy.

Components of the Cultural Web Model

The Cultural Web consists of six interrelated elements that shape organizational culture:

1. Stories: Narratives shared among employees about key people and events, including company legends and myths.
2. Rituals and Routines: The daily behavior and actions that are considered normal within the company.
3. Symbols: The visual representations of the company, such as logos, office design, and dress code.
4. Organizational Structure: How the company is organized, including hierarchical structure and power relations.
5. Control Systems: The ways that the company is controlled, including financial systems, quality systems, and rewards.
6. Power Structures: The people who hold significant influence within the organization.

Analyzing Organizational Culture

• Mapping the Current Cultural Web: Understand the existing organizational culture by analyzing each element of the model.
• Identifying Inconsistencies: Look for inconsistencies between the current culture and the desired strategic direction.

Shaping Organizational Culture

• Realigning Elements: Modify elements of the cultural web to support the desired strategy. This might involve changing stories, rituals, symbols, or structures.
• Involving Key Stakeholders: Engage leaders and influential figures in the process to drive cultural change.

Applications and Benefits

• Strategy Development and Implementation: Aligns organizational culture with strategy, enhancing the effectiveness of strategic initiatives.
• Change Management: Helps in managing cultural aspects during organizational change.
• Understanding and Resolving Conflicts: Provides insights into the underlying cultural dynamics that may be causing conflicts or barriers.

Challenges and Limitations

• Complexity: Culture is deeply ingrained and complex, making it difficult to change.
• Subjectivity: Cultural elements can be subjective and open to different interpretations.

Conclusion

The Cultural Web Model is a powerful tool for understanding and shaping organizational culture. By analyzing and realigning the elements of the cultural web, companies can ensure that their culture supports their strategic objectives, leading to improved performance and effectiveness. While challenging, proactive management of organizational culture is crucial for long-term success and adaptability in a dynamic business environment.