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What are Management Metaphors?Management Metaphors are used often by managers to communicate and clarify the meaning of complex things or concepts, such as a strategy, a strategic vision, a mission statement and, last but not least, a management method or philosophy. A metaphor (from Greek metapherein - to transfer) is a comparison which imaginatively compares one (complex) thing with another dissimilar (well-known) thing, and transfers or ascribes to the first thing (the tenor or idea) some of the qualities of the second (the vehicle or image). Typical for a metaphor is that one thing is likened to another dissimilar thing not using like, as, than, etc. A metaphor is not merely an expressive device, but an integral part of the function of language as a definer of reality as well as a reflector of reality. This form of figurative language can help to convey meaning to widely dissimilar things. Below some examples of frequently used metaphors in management:
Metaphors are extremely powerful communication mechanisms, and their relevance in management, the media and society as a whole can hardly be overestimated. This can be both positive and negative. For example if we need to change an organization, a carefully chosen metaphor can be a powerful change agent, but if the employees keep referring to the organization using an old metaphor, that old metaphor can be a strong barrier to change. When crafting an organizational metaphor it is advisable to be very alert for Cultural Dimensions.
Compare with: Framing | Metonymy | Cognitive Bias | Storytelling | Positioning | Catalytic Mechanisms | Six Thinking Hats | Brainstorming | Strategy Maps | Mind Mapping | Garbage Can Model |
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