Transforming Corporate Culture in the US Telecommunications Industry: Notes on Social Engineering

Abstract

This article analyzes corporate culture transformation programs in the US telecommunications industry. It specifically looks at (1) why a massive investment in corporate culture transformation has been deemed necessary by top management, (2) ways corporate culture change programs have been implemented, and (3) some consequences of these programs for telecommunications workers and companies. The analysis is based primarily on ethnographic observations and interviews with workers and managers involved in corporate culture transformations. It also relies on the relevant literature, and corporate documents. The article concludes by suggesting what these programs portend for the international scene generally and Europe specifically. In addition, it discusses which approaches to corporate cultural change appear effective, and which appear counterproductive.