Expanding the understanding of positive organisational practices in positively deviant organisations: An online desk research review
Abstract
Positive organisational practices are actions performed by employees within the workplace that
enhance worker and organisational wellness. In identifying positively deviant organisations,
specific positive practices within the organisation were studied as an online desk research. This
study is based on a backdrop of a study by Cameron et al. (2011) where the authors theorise
about certain positive practices, but do not stipulate actual practices.
In understanding what these positive practices look like, the study used the interpretive
paradigm. Through qualitative inquiry, thematic analysis was used to expand the understanding
of manifest positive practices in organisations. The researcher used two significant ways of
gathering the data, both through the internet; looking up "top" and "happiest" companies to
work for as well as looking at the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA)
Network online resources and Michigan Ross School of Business online page. All of the data
gathered (150 pieces) was from secondary internet / online sources.
The results generated 13 themes, of which five stood out as most salient: social interactions at
work, inclusivity of all differences, mindfulness, transparent/open communication and
creativity/innovation. The study concludes by identifying similarities between Cameron et al.
(2011) and the study results, and proposes a link between 11 of the themes. Furthermore, the
results suggest that seven of the study’s practices coincide with one particular practice from
Cameron et al. (2011): ‘inspiring’ others in the workplace.
The significance of the study includes the expanded understanding of positive organisational
(manifest) practices that take place in positively deviant organisations. By comparing and
contrasting these practices with the Cameron et al. (2011) positive practices, similarities were
found. Recommendations for future research are offered.
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