Communication

1. How would you describe the organizational culture as Dow and the union approached the contract date? Authoritarian or participative?

The organizational culture of Dow and the union approached the contract date is participative as evidently shown on the ability of both parties to succumb to communication initiatives and strategies that bridge the mounting gap in their relationship. The pattern of creating shared common assumptions that the organization learned are positive. It resolves problems of external adaptation and internal integration that has been considered valid, and that making it possible for both parties to pass it down to new members as the appropriate way to think, perceive and feel the organizational concerns. The success of various communications can be used to describe the overall organizational culture of Dow.

2. What were the legal communication restrictions, based on the bargaining agreement?

The given legal communication restrictions include the company’s and the union’s agreement to a no-news blackout and tight restrictions of NLRA in relation to the implementation or introduction of new communications vehicles directed to employees. The no-news blackout means transparency in all areas of business affairs. Meanwhile, the introduction of new communications vehicles should work in a positive effect and serve the purposes of both parties. Legalities are crucial as to regulate the company and the union on actions that they are both taking at hand. Legal communications restrictions serve as arbitrator and damage controller.

3. What forms of internal communication were used to reach the primary audiences? Why do you think these types of internal media were used?

Internal communication used in reaching primary audiences varies in types as specified by the comprehensive communications plan developed by the integrated team. Key messages are extended in forms of Q&A, discussion forums, advertisements, and employee and community leader letters. Direct and indirect communication initiatives are continuous and intensified. These types of internal media were used due to the urgent need to provide better understanding about the issues at hand through fast and effective channels of communications.

4. Did Dow’s communications objectives in the case consider the shifts in employee values? If so, how? If not, why not?

The communications objectives are directed to the overall well-being of the company and its stakeholders. It follows that it had considered the shifts in the employee values. This was done by providing research on the employees, for example on the overall opinion of Dow and Michigan Operations, the working environment, union leadership and management, and competitiveness. Research provided primary knowledge that was used in policy making and communications strategy execution driven to success.