Artifacts represent the directly observable symbols and signs of an organizations culture
Companies with strong organizational cultures are more effective that companies with weak culture s
The process of strengthening organizational culture, by attracting and hiring people who already embrace the cultural values, and weeding out those who don't fit the cultures is explained by
Perhaps the most significant realization is that every workplace artifact has a creator and a consumer. If you’ve ever had to squeeze your email address onto a blank less than one inch wide, you know that the person who made the form probably never tried to actually use the form. Likewise, the person who wrote the operations manual may have produced a masterpiece, but what are the chances that this document has done more than collect dust? This is the first and most essential aspect of making better workplace artifacts: bring consumers and creators together and have them actually attempt the task. There is no better path for finding and fixing errors than experiencing them first hand.
There is no better path for finding and fixing errors than experiencing them first hand. Furthermore, artifacts tell us something about our values. Ancient sculptures reveal perspectives on beauty and fashion. Modern informational signs explain workplace policy and procedure.
This phrasing offers a subtle reminder to staff that visiting the washroom is not working. In a sense, the statement is actually derogatory and self-contradictory. “We’re not paying you to wash up, but you better clean your hands thoroughly while being quick about it.” The instruction actually requires behavior (using the word “must”) at a time when employees are not technically on the clock!