[Solved] Week 1 Discussion Response- Capstone

Assignment Prompt & Instructions

**files (4)**

– ## week1discussion1.docx

– ## Week1DiscussionInstructions-Capstone.docx

– ## Week1LearningResources-Capstone.docx

– Week1DiscussionResponse-Capstone.docx

**## week1discussion1.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion: The Big Picture**

Strategy is a long-term guide for an organization that involves determining and deciding what goals an organization wants to go towards. It assists business leaders to think about the “big picture” in relation to every day decisions. In order to assess resources, plan from potential opportunities, control risk and monitor progress, leaders need an effective strategy. Without a strategy, organizations might be engaged in heavy short-term activity, and not know their long-term direction.

Organizational culture matters as it affects the way employees think, communicate, make decisions, and react to change. From my understanding, the most essential cultural elements to consider are values, ethics, communication skills, teamwork, responsibility, and a willingness to embrace innovation. If employees know and act on organizational values, they will engage in co-operative working to achieve shared goals. Effective communication also helps employees understand their roles and their impact on the success of the organization. In addition, a culture that enables learning and innovation can assist organizations with adapting to customer expectations and competitive landscapes.

I believe organizations can benefit a lot in being mission driven, or purpose driven. A clear mission provides direction and explains why an organization exists beyond simply generating revenue. Purpose can engage employees, reinforce organizational identity, influence customer trust, and inform long-term decision-making. If strategy is aligned with an important objective, workers might believe their job is helpful for something worthwhile. This can enhance engagement and cultivate organizational commitment.

However, mission- and/or purpose-driven strategies can be challenging. The balance between organizations and mission versus financial sustainability, stakeholder expectations and competitive pressures must all be considered. Pursuing a social or ethical purpose may sometimes require additional resources or difficult compromises. Leaders need to therefore be sure of the mission's reality and backed by measurable goals.

**## Week1DiscussionInstructions-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion**

**The Big Picture**

Taking into consideration what you have achieved in your academic and professional career thus far and what you plan to do in the future, what are your thoughts about “the big picture” of your life? This can include your own personal mission or purpose, the goals you have set for yourself, and so on. Perhaps you have certain goals or plans related to pursuing a particular career path, or perhaps there is a personal passion you want to pursue. In people’s personal lives, these big-picture goals may be related to career, relationships, health, financial stability, and so forth, and they may or may not be connected to a person’s sense of mission or purpose. In an organizational context, these “big picture” goals may also be financially focused, related to the sustainability of the organization, and connected to an organizational mission. In either context, long-term, strategic planning is key to ensuring that goals are met. And when driven by a mission or purpose, achievement of those goals can fulfill even greater outcomes than simply an individual person’s or business’s success. In this Discussion, you will consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture and mission- or purpose-driven strategy to analyze the roles they play in an organization.

**To prepare for this Discussion:**

· Draw upon the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout your program.

· Consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture.

· Consider the idea of an organization being mission driven or purpose driven.

**Post** your analysis of the role of culture, mission, and purpose in an organization’s strategy, to include the following:

· In your own words, briefly explain what strategy is and how it can help business leaders to focus on “the big picture.”

· Based on your own experiences and knowledge of organizational culture, identify which aspects of culture within organizations are most critical to the development and execution of business strategy. Explain why.

· Analyze whether it is beneficial for an organization to base its strategy on being mission driven or purpose driven. Explain why or why not. Are there any negatives or compromises that organizations might need to consider?

**## Week1LearningResources-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Learning Resources**

**Capstone**

**What Organizational Culture Is**

When you think of organizational culture, what comes to mind? Simply put, organizational culture refers to a company’s mission, objectives, expectations, and values that guide business practices and employee behaviors. Using these resources, you will consider what organizational culture is and will begin using these ideas—as well as others you have examined throughout this program—to analyze the organizational culture of the organization that you selected to be the focus of your playbook.

· Cheng, J. Y-J., & Groysberg, B. (2021, June 18).
[Research: What inclusive companies have in common](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06F0I-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–7. http://hbr.org

· Dillard, S. R. (2021, April 19).
[How inclusive is your leadership?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06AN0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8. http://hbr.org

**Time Estimate:** 6 minutes

· GreggU. (2019, November 18).
[_Organizational cultureLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8

**Note:** The approximate length of this media piece is 14 minutes.

· Kegan, R., Lahey, L., & Fleming, A. (2014, January 22).
[Does your company make you a better person?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH00MWO-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Greene, J. R. (2022).
[Boards can accelerate business performance by fully engaging on organizational cultureLinks to an external site.](https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=shib&db=bth&AN=156834273&site=eds-live&scope=site&custid=s6527200).
_Board Leadership, 2022_(181), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1002/bl.30215

· Traphagan, J. (2017, January 6).
[We’re thinking about organizational culture all wrong](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH03E82-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Benefits and Challenges of Organizational Culture**

Businesses with a well-established organizational culture tend to be more successful because they have operational systems in place that not only support employee performance, productivity, and engagement, but also promote the mission, objectives, expectations, and values of the organization. There is a clear sense of purpose, whereby employees not only understand the organization’s goals but can also feel more connected to those goals and to one another. On the other hand, the culture of an organization can present challenges to the strategic success of a business as well. Through these resources, you will consider the benefits and challenges of organizational culture.

· Furst, P. (2021, May 12).
[Organizational culture drives (safety) performance. \
_Occupational Health & Safety_.Links to an external site.](https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx) https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx

· Herrity, J. (2022. October 31).
[_Corporate culture examples and benefits_ Links to an external site.](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career%20-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits). Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits

· PwC. (2021).
_Global culture survey 2021:_ [_The link between culture and competitive advantageLinks to an external site._](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf).
[https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf)

**Incorporating Culture into Strategy and Business Practices**

Not only can a strong, well-defined organizational culture support employee engagement and even improve retention, but that culture can be used as part of a business’s strategy. As you consider the culture and business practices of the company that you selected to feature in your strategy playbook, also begin to think about how those elements could serve as a strategic advantage for that company. Or, if there are adjustments that may need to be made, consider how doing so can promote the organization’s success into the future.

· Bartone, P. T., & Stein, S. J. (2020, March 9).
[Build “hardiness” into your organizational culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05G3F-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Gafni, N. (2021, July 1).
[_Do your DE&I efforts consider age, class, and lived experience?_](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06GA7-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–9. http://hbr.org

· Grant, A. (2021, February 3).
[Building a culture of learning at workLinks to an external site.](https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp). strategy+business. https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp

· Groysberg, B., Lee, J., Price, J., & Cheng, J. Y.  (2018, January–February).
[The leader’s guide to corporate culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FS18010-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review_,
_96_(1), 44–52.

· Yohn, D. L. (2019, December 17).
[Build a culture to match your brand](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05BK0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–6. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2018, October 2).
[6 ways to build a customer-centric culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH04KFV-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–5. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2021, February 8).
[Company culture is everyone’s responsibility](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH065SN-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Important Documents for the Week**

·
**Document:** [MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794?wrap=1) [Download MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794/download?download_frd=1)

· GoSkills.com (2023, June 26).
[_How to create a table of contents in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Word 365 – Basic & Advanced CourseLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI)[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI

· ITsEasyTraining1st. (2023, January 1).
[_How to add a bibliography entry into a Microsoft Word document_ Links to an external site.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o

**Week1DiscussionResponse-Capstone.docx**

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**Week1DiscussionResponse-Capstone.docx**

This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/week1discussionresponse-capstone-docx)

**## week1discussion1.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion: The Big Picture**

Strategy is a long-term guide for an organization that involves determining and deciding what goals an organization wants to go towards. It assists business leaders to think about the “big picture” in relation to every day decisions. In order to assess resources, plan from potential opportunities, control risk and monitor progress, leaders need an effective strategy. Without a strategy, organizations might be engaged in heavy short-term activity, and not know their long-term direction.

Organizational culture matters as it affects the way employees think, communicate, make decisions, and react to change. From my understanding, the most essential cultural elements to consider are values, ethics, communication skills, teamwork, responsibility, and a willingness to embrace innovation. If employees know and act on organizational values, they will engage in co-operative working to achieve shared goals. Effective communication also helps employees understand their roles and their impact on the success of the organization. In addition, a culture that enables learning and innovation can assist organizations with adapting to customer expectations and competitive landscapes.

I believe organizations can benefit a lot in being mission driven, or purpose driven. A clear mission provides direction and explains why an organization exists beyond simply generating revenue. Purpose can engage employees, reinforce organizational identity, influence customer trust, and inform long-term decision-making. If strategy is aligned with an important objective, workers might believe their job is helpful for something worthwhile. This can enhance engagement and cultivate organizational commitment.

However, mission- and/or purpose-driven strategies can be challenging. The balance between organizations and mission versus financial sustainability, stakeholder expectations and competitive pressures must all be considered. Pursuing a social or ethical purpose may sometimes require additional resources or difficult compromises. Leaders need to therefore be sure of the mission's reality and backed by measurable goals.

**## Week1DiscussionInstructions-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion**

**The Big Picture**

Taking into consideration what you have achieved in your academic and professional career thus far and what you plan to do in the future, what are your thoughts about “the big picture” of your life? This can include your own personal mission or purpose, the goals you have set for yourself, and so on. Perhaps you have certain goals or plans related to pursuing a particular career path, or perhaps there is a personal passion you want to pursue. In people’s personal lives, these big-picture goals may be related to career, relationships, health, financial stability, and so forth, and they may or may not be connected to a person’s sense of mission or purpose. In an organizational context, these “big picture” goals may also be financially focused, related to the sustainability of the organization, and connected to an organizational mission. In either context, long-term, strategic planning is key to ensuring that goals are met. And when driven by a mission or purpose, achievement of those goals can fulfill even greater outcomes than simply an individual person’s or business’s success. In this Discussion, you will consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture and mission- or purpose-driven strategy to analyze the roles they play in an organization.

**To prepare for this Discussion:**

· Draw upon the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout your program.

· Consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture.

· Consider the idea of an organization being mission driven or purpose driven.

**Post** your analysis of the role of culture, mission, and purpose in an organization’s strategy, to include the following:

· In your own words, briefly explain what strategy is and how it can help business leaders to focus on “the big picture.”

· Based on your own experiences and knowledge of organizational culture, identify which aspects of culture within organizations are most critical to the development and execution of business strategy. Explain why.

· Analyze whether it is beneficial for an organization to base its strategy on being mission driven or purpose driven. Explain why or why not. Are there any negatives or compromises that organizations might need to consider?

**## Week1LearningResources-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Learning Resources**

**Capstone**

**What Organizational Culture Is**

When you think of organizational culture, what comes to mind? Simply put, organizational culture refers to a company’s mission, objectives, expectations, and values that guide business practices and employee behaviors. Using these resources, you will consider what organizational culture is and will begin using these ideas—as well as others you have examined throughout this program—to analyze the organizational culture of the organization that you selected to be the focus of your playbook.

· Cheng, J. Y-J., & Groysberg, B. (2021, June 18).
[Research: What inclusive companies have in common](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06F0I-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–7. http://hbr.org

· Dillard, S. R. (2021, April 19).
[How inclusive is your leadership?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06AN0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8. http://hbr.org

**Time Estimate:** 6 minutes

· GreggU. (2019, November 18).
[_Organizational cultureLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8

**Note:** The approximate length of this media piece is 14 minutes.

· Kegan, R., Lahey, L., & Fleming, A. (2014, January 22).
[Does your company make you a better person?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH00MWO-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Greene, J. R. (2022).
[Boards can accelerate business performance by fully engaging on organizational cultureLinks to an external site.](https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=shib&db=bth&AN=156834273&site=eds-live&scope=site&custid=s6527200).
_Board Leadership, 2022_(181), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1002/bl.30215

· Traphagan, J. (2017, January 6).
[We’re thinking about organizational culture all wrong](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH03E82-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Benefits and Challenges of Organizational Culture**

Businesses with a well-established organizational culture tend to be more successful because they have operational systems in place that not only support employee performance, productivity, and engagement, but also promote the mission, objectives, expectations, and values of the organization. There is a clear sense of purpose, whereby employees not only understand the organization’s goals but can also feel more connected to those goals and to one another. On the other hand, the culture of an organization can present challenges to the strategic success of a business as well. Through these resources, you will consider the benefits and challenges of organizational culture.

· Furst, P. (2021, May 12).
[Organizational culture drives (safety) performance. \
_Occupational Health & Safety_.Links to an external site.](https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx) https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx

· Herrity, J. (2022. October 31).
[_Corporate culture examples and benefits_ Links to an external site.](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career%20-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits). Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits

· PwC. (2021).
_Global culture survey 2021:_ [_The link between culture and competitive advantageLinks to an external site._](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf).
[https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf)

**Incorporating Culture into Strategy and Business Practices**

Not only can a strong, well-defined organizational culture support employee engagement and even improve retention, but that culture can be used as part of a business’s strategy. As you consider the culture and business practices of the company that you selected to feature in your strategy playbook, also begin to think about how those elements could serve as a strategic advantage for that company. Or, if there are adjustments that may need to be made, consider how doing so can promote the organization’s success into the future.

· Bartone, P. T., & Stein, S. J. (2020, March 9).
[Build “hardiness” into your organizational culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05G3F-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Gafni, N. (2021, July 1).
[_Do your DE&I efforts consider age, class, and lived experience?_](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06GA7-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–9. http://hbr.org

· Grant, A. (2021, February 3).
[Building a culture of learning at workLinks to an external site.](https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp). strategy+business. https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp

· Groysberg, B., Lee, J., Price, J., & Cheng, J. Y.  (2018, January–February).
[The leader’s guide to corporate culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FS18010-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review_,
_96_(1), 44–52.

· Yohn, D. L. (2019, December 17).
[Build a culture to match your brand](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05BK0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–6. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2018, October 2).
[6 ways to build a customer-centric culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH04KFV-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–5. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2021, February 8).
[Company culture is everyone’s responsibility](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH065SN-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Important Documents for the Week**

·
**Document:** [MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794?wrap=1) [Download MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794/download?download_frd=1)

· GoSkills.com (2023, June 26).
[_How to create a table of contents in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Word 365 – Basic & Advanced CourseLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI)[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI

· ITsEasyTraining1st. (2023, January 1).
[_How to add a bibliography entry into a Microsoft Word document_ Links to an external site.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o

**Week1DiscussionResponse-Capstone.docx**

This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/week1discussionresponse-capstone-docx)

**## week1discussion1.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion: The Big Picture**

Strategy is a long-term guide for an organization that involves determining and deciding what goals an organization wants to go towards. It assists business leaders to think about the “big picture” in relation to every day decisions. In order to assess resources, plan from potential opportunities, control risk and monitor progress, leaders need an effective strategy. Without a strategy, organizations might be engaged in heavy short-term activity, and not know their long-term direction.

Organizational culture matters as it affects the way employees think, communicate, make decisions, and react to change. From my understanding, the most essential cultural elements to consider are values, ethics, communication skills, teamwork, responsibility, and a willingness to embrace innovation. If employees know and act on organizational values, they will engage in co-operative working to achieve shared goals. Effective communication also helps employees understand their roles and their impact on the success of the organization. In addition, a culture that enables learning and innovation can assist organizations with adapting to customer expectations and competitive landscapes.

I believe organizations can benefit a lot in being mission driven, or purpose driven. A clear mission provides direction and explains why an organization exists beyond simply generating revenue. Purpose can engage employees, reinforce organizational identity, influence customer trust, and inform long-term decision-making. If strategy is aligned with an important objective, workers might believe their job is helpful for something worthwhile. This can enhance engagement and cultivate organizational commitment.

However, mission- and/or purpose-driven strategies can be challenging. The balance between organizations and mission versus financial sustainability, stakeholder expectations and competitive pressures must all be considered. Pursuing a social or ethical purpose may sometimes require additional resources or difficult compromises. Leaders need to therefore be sure of the mission's reality and backed by measurable goals.

**## Week1DiscussionInstructions-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Discussion**

**The Big Picture**

Taking into consideration what you have achieved in your academic and professional career thus far and what you plan to do in the future, what are your thoughts about “the big picture” of your life? This can include your own personal mission or purpose, the goals you have set for yourself, and so on. Perhaps you have certain goals or plans related to pursuing a particular career path, or perhaps there is a personal passion you want to pursue. In people’s personal lives, these big-picture goals may be related to career, relationships, health, financial stability, and so forth, and they may or may not be connected to a person’s sense of mission or purpose. In an organizational context, these “big picture” goals may also be financially focused, related to the sustainability of the organization, and connected to an organizational mission. In either context, long-term, strategic planning is key to ensuring that goals are met. And when driven by a mission or purpose, achievement of those goals can fulfill even greater outcomes than simply an individual person’s or business’s success. In this Discussion, you will consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture and mission- or purpose-driven strategy to analyze the roles they play in an organization.

**To prepare for this Discussion:**

· Draw upon the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout your program.

· Consider your experiences with and knowledge of organizational culture.

· Consider the idea of an organization being mission driven or purpose driven.

**Post** your analysis of the role of culture, mission, and purpose in an organization’s strategy, to include the following:

· In your own words, briefly explain what strategy is and how it can help business leaders to focus on “the big picture.”

· Based on your own experiences and knowledge of organizational culture, identify which aspects of culture within organizations are most critical to the development and execution of business strategy. Explain why.

· Analyze whether it is beneficial for an organization to base its strategy on being mission driven or purpose driven. Explain why or why not. Are there any negatives or compromises that organizations might need to consider?

**## Week1LearningResources-Capstone.docx**

**Week 1 Learning Resources**

**Capstone**

**What Organizational Culture Is**

When you think of organizational culture, what comes to mind? Simply put, organizational culture refers to a company’s mission, objectives, expectations, and values that guide business practices and employee behaviors. Using these resources, you will consider what organizational culture is and will begin using these ideas—as well as others you have examined throughout this program—to analyze the organizational culture of the organization that you selected to be the focus of your playbook.

· Cheng, J. Y-J., & Groysberg, B. (2021, June 18).
[Research: What inclusive companies have in common](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06F0I-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–7. http://hbr.org

· Dillard, S. R. (2021, April 19).
[How inclusive is your leadership?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06AN0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8. http://hbr.org

**Time Estimate:** 6 minutes

· GreggU. (2019, November 18).
[_Organizational cultureLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Y61qshVv8

**Note:** The approximate length of this media piece is 14 minutes.

· Kegan, R., Lahey, L., & Fleming, A. (2014, January 22).
[Does your company make you a better person?](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH00MWO-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Greene, J. R. (2022).
[Boards can accelerate business performance by fully engaging on organizational cultureLinks to an external site.](https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=shib&db=bth&AN=156834273&site=eds-live&scope=site&custid=s6527200).
_Board Leadership, 2022_(181), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1002/bl.30215

· Traphagan, J. (2017, January 6).
[We’re thinking about organizational culture all wrong](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH03E82-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Benefits and Challenges of Organizational Culture**

Businesses with a well-established organizational culture tend to be more successful because they have operational systems in place that not only support employee performance, productivity, and engagement, but also promote the mission, objectives, expectations, and values of the organization. There is a clear sense of purpose, whereby employees not only understand the organization’s goals but can also feel more connected to those goals and to one another. On the other hand, the culture of an organization can present challenges to the strategic success of a business as well. Through these resources, you will consider the benefits and challenges of organizational culture.

· Furst, P. (2021, May 12).
[Organizational culture drives (safety) performance. \
_Occupational Health & Safety_.Links to an external site.](https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx) https://ohsonline.com/articles/2021/05/12/organizational-culture-drives-safety-performance.aspx

· Herrity, J. (2022. October 31).
[_Corporate culture examples and benefits_ Links to an external site.](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career%20-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits). Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/corporate-culture-examples-benefits

· PwC. (2021).
_Global culture survey 2021:_ [_The link between culture and competitive advantageLinks to an external site._](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf).
[https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf](https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/upskilling/global-culture-survey-2020/pwc-global-culture-survey-2021.pdf)

**Incorporating Culture into Strategy and Business Practices**

Not only can a strong, well-defined organizational culture support employee engagement and even improve retention, but that culture can be used as part of a business’s strategy. As you consider the culture and business practices of the company that you selected to feature in your strategy playbook, also begin to think about how those elements could serve as a strategic advantage for that company. Or, if there are adjustments that may need to be made, consider how doing so can promote the organization’s success into the future.

· Bartone, P. T., & Stein, S. J. (2020, March 9).
[Build “hardiness” into your organizational culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05G3F-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–4. http://hbr.org

· Gafni, N. (2021, July 1).
[_Do your DE&I efforts consider age, class, and lived experience?_](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH06GA7-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text) _Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–9. http://hbr.org

· Grant, A. (2021, February 3).
[Building a culture of learning at workLinks to an external site.](https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp). strategy+business. https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Building-a-culture-of-learning-at-work?utm_source=itw&utm_medium=itw20210701&utm_campaign=resp

· Groysberg, B., Lee, J., Price, J., & Cheng, J. Y.  (2018, January–February).
[The leader’s guide to corporate culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FS18010-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review_,
_96_(1), 44–52.

· Yohn, D. L. (2019, December 17).
[Build a culture to match your brand](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH05BK0-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–6. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2018, October 2).
[6 ways to build a customer-centric culture](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH04KFV-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 2–5. http://hbr.org

· Yohn, D. L. (2021, February 8).
[Company culture is everyone’s responsibility](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/external_tools/retrieve?url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.hbsp.harvard.edu%2Flti%2Flinks%2FH065SN-PDF-ENG%2Frich-text).
_Harvard Business Review Digital Articles_, 1–8.
[http://hbr.org](http://hbr.org/)

**Important Documents for the Week**

·
**Document:** [MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794?wrap=1) [Download MBAX 6990 Assignment Template (Word document)](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/247046/files/21119794/download?download_frd=1)

· GoSkills.com (2023, June 26).
[_How to create a table of contents in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Word 365 – Basic & Advanced CourseLinks to an external site._](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI)[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-1vBwJvvzI

· ITsEasyTraining1st. (2023, January 1).
[_How to add a bibliography entry into a Microsoft Word document_ Links to an external site.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXPGQB4PD3o

**Week1DiscussionResponse-Capstone.docx**

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