Which term best describes the shared values and beliefs of an organization?

The term that best describes the shared values and beliefs of an organization is organizational culture. This concept encompasses the underlying norms, attitudes, and practices that define how a group operates and interacts within the organization. Organizational culture often influences employee behavior, guides decision-making, and shapes the overall environment of the workplace.

A strong organizational culture can foster a sense of belonging among employees and align them with the organization's goals and mission. It reflects what is important to the organization, often manifesting in the way people communicate, the behaviors that are rewarded, and how conflicts are resolved.

In contrast, organizational structure refers to how tasks are divided and coordinated, creating a framework for roles and responsibilities. Organizational hierarchy pertains to the levels of authority and reporting relationships within the organization, which doesn't necessarily convey values or beliefs. Organizational strategy involves the plans and tactics employed to achieve specific goals and objectives but does not directly represent the shared values and beliefs that constitute culture. Therefore, organizational culture is the most appropriate term for describing the essence of shared values and beliefs within an organization.