Organizational culture as a source of high reliability

Article Abstract:

Organizations in which reliable performance is a more pressing issue than efficient performance often must learn to cope with incomprehensible technologies by means other than trial and error, since the cost of failure is too high. Discovery and consistent application of substitutes for trial and error - such as imagination, simulation, vicarious experience, and stories - contribute to heightened reliability. Organizational culture is integral to the creation of effective substitutes. Using examples taken from air traffic control, nuclear power generation, and naval carrier operations, this article demonstrates that closer attention to the ways people construct meaning can suggest new ways to improve reliability. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Social aspects, Research, Analysis, Innovations, Human resource management, Training, Corporations, Nuclear power plants, Aircraft carriers, Employee training, Organizational behavior, Air traffic controllers, Naval aviation

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The rise and decline of labor-management cooperation: lessons from health care in the Twin Cities

Article Abstract:

Cooperation issues in the labor-management relations of Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN, health care operations are discussed. Patient care issues and hospital reorganizations are also discussed.

Personnel administration, Minnesota, Labor organizations, Labor Unions and Similar Labor Organizations, Unions-Services, Industry Overview, Labor relations, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, Service industries workers' unions, Saint Paul, Minnesota

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Hospitals as cultures of entrapment: a re-analysis of the Bristol Royal Infirmary

Article Abstract:

Performance issues at Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, England, are discussed. The importance of patient safety is necessary to ensure change is implemented.

General services, England, Case studies, Safety and security measures, Bristol, England

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