Balancing Ideational and Sensate Cultures: Finding the Middle Point
Organizational culture is an amalgamation of beliefs, values, behavior, practices, and artifacts that shape the ways of working and interacting within an organization. Organizational cultures can be categorized into two types- Ideational (membrane cultures) and Sensate (network cultures). Ideational cultures focus on intangible aspects such as spirituality, intuition, and higher purpose, while Sensate cultures prioritize tangible aspects such as action, results, and practicality.
However, it’s not always easy for organizations to pick the perfect culture type. Both have their pros and cons, and companies have to find a balance between them to thrive. Here’s how organizations can balance Ideational and Sensate cultures and find the middle point.
Understanding Ideational and Sensate Cultures
Ideational cultures usually emphasize the organization’s vision, mission, and values and work more on intuition and perception. People tend to be more reflective and thoughtful, inclined towards innovation and creativity. The work environment encourages employees to bring their full selves to work, including their spiritual selves. Communication channels are open, and people are encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas.
In contrast, Sensate cultures work more on pragmatism and efficiency, focusing on the bottom line. Employees have clearly defined roles and are expected to work within those roles without deviating from the set goals and objectives. Communication channels are structured and formal, with a clear hierarchy in place. People are encouraged to bring their best professional selves to work.
The Need for Balancing
Organizations require the Ideational and Sensate cultures’ flavor, and neither culture type is better than the other. Ideational culture can bring out creativity, innovation and help companies think outside the box. At the same time, Sensate culture can help companies operate efficiently, increase productivity and improve profitability.
However, too much of either culture types can result in problems. Excessive attention to Sensate culture can lead to a rigid organization with no scope for creativity, innovation, and collaboration. While a culture focused too much on Ideational culture can lead to a disorganized, unstructured, and inefficient organization.
Steps towards Finding Balance
Finding the middle point between Ideational and Sensate cultures involves several steps:
1. Identify the current culture – Organizations need to identify whether they currently have an Ideational or Sensate culture.
2. Define the ideal culture – Based on the organization’s needs and goals, a clear understanding of what the ideal culture should be like.
3. Assess gaps – What’s different between the existing and the desired cultures has to be recognized and opportunities to reduce those gaps must be found.
4. Set up a program of improvement – Suggestions and ideas have to be shared with employees about how the organization can improve and align its culture with the ideal culture.
5. Implement strategies – Strategies have to be developed to foster and promote behaviors and practices which are desired within the organization.
Conclusion
Striking a balance between Ideational and Sensate cultures is critical for the organization’s success. A perfect balance can bring out the best of both worlds- innovation, creativity, collaboration, and efficiency, productivity leading to increased profitability. While developing a balanced culture can be a challenging task, it eventually pays off, fostering a work environment friendly to all members.
