Question 1

SAS, which defines for Statistical Analysis Software, writes software that makes it possible to gather and understand data, producing products that set the industry standard in the world of knowledge management. It is a competitive field with high stakes, but the atmosphere at SAS headquarters in Cary, North Carolina, is relaxed, almost serene. Jim Goodnight, co-founder of SAS, created a caring corporate culture where employees are respected and given the freedom and information they need to perform at the top of their abilities.

The most important value is taking care of employees and making sure they have whatever they need to be satisfied and productive. Employees are encouraged to lead a balanced life rather than to work long hours and express a hard-charging, competitive spirit. The company even adopted a seven-hour workday to give employees more personal time. SAS also offers amazing benefits, including two Montessari day-care centers, a 36,000 square foot fitness center, unlimited sick days, an on-site health clinic, elder care advice and referrals, and live music in the cafeteria, where employees may eat with their families. Other key values at SAS are equality, fairness, and cooperation.

SAS's culture places a high value on people and human relationships. Managers at the company trust employees to do their jobs to the best of their ability - and then they expect them to go home and enjoy their friends and families. As one employee puts it, "Because you're treated well, you treat the company well."

Thanks to SAS's clan culture, employees care about one another and about the company, a focus that has helped SAS adapt to stiff competition and changing markets.

(a) (i) Explain the difference between corporate culture and organisational culture.

(ii) Show the elements which contribute towards a strong culture in SAS.

(b) How, according to you, do effective communication networks at SAS tends towards the benefits of a positive organizational culture?

(c) As a newly recruited manager at SAS, explain critically what management functions you would undergo in order to maintain the culture prevailing at SAS.