Vox Organizationis – theoretical basis and methodological considerations in the development of an instrument for organizational culture

Management scientists have been trying to identify the impact of various external and internal aspects on organizational effectiveness and efficiency. Some of them focused on cultural, psychological and “internal sociological issues, others on environmental issues, market trends, and strategic positioning. Many of them focused on researching and conceptualizing the organizational culture as an important concept for organizational functioning. However, it has proved difficult to define and measure the concept. This paper will therefore present the various definitions, conceptualizations and instruments for measuring organizational culture. Looking at the literature and research to date we provide a critical examination of the various approaches to measuring culture and synthesize an approach adapted to the region of South-Eastern Europe. The paper presents theoretical considerations as well as methodological approach for the development of an instrument for organizational culture. The proposed instrument called ‘Vox Organizationis’ is much more than simple measurement of organizational culture. It provides a starting point for a holistic vision of the organization. The approach enables exploration of the alignment level between organizational culture, leader’s values, organizational structure as well as organizational strategy.