SAS, which stands for Statistical Analysis Software, writes software which makes it probable to gather and understand data, producing products that set the industry standard in world of knowledge management. It is a competitive field with high stakes; however the atmosphere at SAS headquarters in Cary, North Carolina, is relaxed, almost tranquil. Jim Goodnight, co-founder of SAS, created a caring corporate culture where employees are respected and given the freedom and information they require to execute at the top of their capabilities.
The most significant value is taking care of employees and making sure they have whatever they need to be satisfied and productive. Employees are encouraged to lead balanced life rather than to work long hours and express hard-charging, competitive spirit. The company even adopted a seven-hour workday to provide employees more personal time. SAS also offers amazing advantages, comprising 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 cafeteria, where employees may eat with their families. Other key values at SAS are equality, cooperation, and fairness.
SASs culture places a high value on people and human relationships. Managers at the company trust employees to do their jobs to best of their ability - and then they anticipate them to go home and enjoy their friends and families. As one employee puts it, “since you’re treated well, you treat the company well.” Thanks to SASs clan culture, employees care about one another and about the company, a focus that has aided SAS adapt to stiff competition and changing markets.
(a) (i) Explain the differentiation between corporate culture and organisational culture.
(ii) Explain the elements which contribute towards strong culture in SAS.
(b) How, according to you, do effective communication networks at SAS lead towards the benefits of positive organizational culture?
(c) As a newly recruited manager at SAS, elaborate critically what management attributes you would undergo in order to sustain the culture prevailing at SAS.