Features of organizational culture in manufacturing organizations: a metaphorical analysis

This study examines organization culture within manufacturing organizations (from the point of weak-strong and positive-negative features) through the use of metaphors. These are used to uncover quickly and easily true feelings about an organization. The study suggests that employees in manufacturing organizations have strong feelings about and towards their organization. At the same time, perhaps because of the long history of well-established organizations, there is a consistency and homogeneity of view. One important finding is that in a period of significant organizational change, employees may have negative perceptions of the organization and its culture. The study demonstrates that the use of metaphors is a useful tool for uncovering feelings towards an organization and suggests that it might be important for managers, researchers and consultants to understand, and be sensitive to, their use.