Presents an ethnography of the engineering division of a large American high- tech corporation. This book offers a critical analysis of an American company's well-known and widely emulated corporate culture.
The book offers a critical ethnographic analysis of the engineering division within a prominent American high-tech corporation, highlighting the complexities of corporate culture. Through detailed observations and interviews, Kunda reveals how management promotes a seemingly informal and flexible work environment that ostensibly fosters individual creativity and growth. However, he uncovers an underlying normative control that influences employees' identities and behaviors. The revised edition includes a conclusion that reassesses the company's trajectory and the contemporary relevance of corporate culture management.
The book explores the significant shift in employment practices, highlighting the rise of skilled contractors and temporary workers in various industries, particularly in high-tech sectors. It delves into the implications of this trend on the workforce, addressing the lack of understanding surrounding contracting and the experiences of those engaged in this form of work. By shedding light on these dynamics, the book aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the evolving labor landscape and the challenges faced by modern workers.