Davita Case Study

9a. Why does DaVita deserve to be called a learning organization? What sets DaVita apart from the typical workplace?

DaVita deserves to be called a learning organization because of the actions. The organization starts at the top with its culture and expectations of admitting their uncertainties. In the meetings or daily life, they strive to tell the truth and not make up an answer just so the person has an answer. The answer must be truthful or they will make a commitment to research and find the correct answer. A learning organization will create, acquire and transfer the knowledge in the organization and the community through meetings, training, forums and other participatory approaches.

What sets DaVita apart from the typical workplace?
Some companies value and reward happy talk, even if it isn’t true. Starting from the top, management take the initiatives to work on personal happiness. “Rather than sending executives to seminars on business strategies and how to drive and measure performance goals, most of DaVita’s learning programs focus on self-improvement and life skills to help participants improve their relationships, set personal goals, and find their inner ambitions” (Clomedia.com). A good organization depends on happy, healthy people emotionally, physically and psychologically fit employees reinvesting themselves into the company for the betterment of the
One must plan how you want to run your organization with the employees by embracing a new culture. However, good management requires telling the truth, asking for help, and learning (Kreitner). Kent Thiry requires CEO’s and other leaders to attend a town meeting where an open forum where people can ask questions and learn. If they are not sure of the answer they will not bluff the answer, but tell the truth and get back to the person with the correct answer. Being truthful will allow the organization to build a culture with a strong environment. Setting examples by management is a means of establishing the culture of your department. Employees who tell the truth, admit mistakes, and ask for help should be rewarded and not reprimanded. A well trained culture where you are strong enough to realize you need help and will ask for help is a long-term business success for DaVita. In today’s society working together will form a stronger culture within the organization. Within the organization, management has an obligation to help people lead happier and better lives. If they are happier, they are more productive and will work better for the stakeholders which will create a positive environment for all involved. Corporate social responsibility is increasing in the business world because communities are demanding more companies organize