The learning organization, sensegiving and psychological contracts : a Hong Kong case
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Organization Studies
Publication Date
1-1-2002
Volume
23
Issue
4
First Page
549
Last Page
569, 684
Keywords
BPR, Ideology, Leadership, Organizational learning, TQM
Abstract
I discuss a qualitative case study of the development of a Hong Kong-based utility company towards the ideals of 'Learning Organization' (LO). The case illuminates the irony of promoting greater openness and creativity through top-down sensegiving, as many managers and professionals participated in the collective development towards LO ideals, but nearly fell into a propaganda trap. The case also highlights the importance of honouring psychological contracts, as a covenant with the workforce, leveraged the company's dominant industry position, and restored an atmosphere of mutuality with a marginalized rump. Noting that the focal company may have been blessed with relatively munificent circumstances, I identify four viability tasks that aspiring LOs may need to perform continually in order to forestall disillusionment.
DOI
10.1177/0170840602234003
Print ISSN
01708406
E-ISSN
17413044
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2002 EGOS
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Snell, R. S. (2002). The learning organization, sensegiving and psychological contracts: A Hong Kong case. Organization Studies, 23(4), 549-569, 684. doi: 10.1177/0170840602234003