Reengineering--impact on organizational culture

There is no question that reengineering impacts organizational culture. In the case of a community-based hospital, it becomes more than just changing the culture--a new culture must emerge. However, cultural change does not have to be negative. The empowerment of reengineering causes employees to think beyond their jobs and to begin seeing their roles in the organization. At first, reengineering appeared to be in direct conflict with CQI principles and the organization's culture. However, culture, no matter how positive or strong, cannot threaten organizational survival. Survival demands the emergence of a new culture. The grassroots nature of CQI and reengineering can create an opportunity to improve labor relations, develop more effective work processes, and assure long-term viability in a rapidly consolidating industry.