Running Head: SYMBOLIC INTERPRETIVISM
Organizational Theory encompasses the detailed study of organizations from multiple viewpoints, methods, and levels of analysis. Two major approaches to studying organizational theory are the sociocultural functionalism and symbolic interpretivism (Michael, 1996). In the study of symbolic interpretivism, we are basically trying to understand how organizations go about their activities and what characteristics in their structure are used to maintain their standards and also to separate them from other organizations. Symbolic interpretivism is all about understanding with meaning and interpretation (Morgan, 1989).
This approach is subjective, viewing reality as a product of individual consciousness, creativity and construction. In short symbolic interpretivism in an organization seeks firsthand knowledge, which is ‘lived’ concepts, meanings and intentions through the researcher’s involvement in everyday flow of activities in the organization.
When using symbolic interpretivism in research of a certain organization such as the Chrysler Corporation, her culture can be revealed through engaging the dynamic interplay between the subjective and the objective and the experience in ways which interpret the identities of other organizations around. This is basically looking at the adaptability and flexibility of the Chrysler Corporation that has kept it in business for many years. Many organizational researchers have examined corporate culture as a source of competitive advantage (Langworth & Norbye, 1985).
Chrysler’s upper hand comes in their team based organizational structure. Most organizations such as Chrysler with consistency, adaptability and mission have a clear sense of purpose and direction, defining goals and strategic objectives, and expressing a vision of the future which makes them successful as they are now. Chrysler Corporation’s well established structure over the years has earned her a number three spot as a automobile manufacturer in the United States which clearly shows the value of corporate in strategy creation ( Shafritz & Ott, 1996).
References
Shafritz, M. J. & Ott, S. J. (1996). Classics of organization theory. Texas: Harcourt Brace College Publishers.
Michael, O. J. (1996). Social Science: Studying organizational Symbolism. Los Angeles: University of California.
Morgan, G. (1989). Creative organization theory: a resourcebook. Wyoming: SAGE.
Langworth, M. R. & Norbye, P. J. (1985). Langworth, M. R. & Norbye, P. J. (1985). The complete history of Chrysler Corporation, 1924- 1985. Beekman House.