Mthente’s qualitative report formed a vital part of the overall refinery assessment on productivity, which also included an in-house technical and operational assessment.

To undertake the climate and culture survey, Mthente used the following methodology:

• Consultations with Engen’s project team – A core aspect of all Mthente’s projects is close collaboration with the clients’ internal project team.
• Consultations and review of quantitative data – Prior to carrying out the qualitative survey, Mthente reviewed secondary quantitative data collected by Engen in 2010.
• Development of conceptual framework and qualitative questions – Based on organisational culture models, Mthente developed questions that would uncover the inner values, needs, beliefs and assumptions of employees and managers at the refinery.
• Qualitative climate and culture survey
  • Data collection – A pilot survey was conducted to test the qualitative technique before the full study. Aiming for a representative cross-section, the full study included a total of 141 employees and managers who were randomly selected and interviewed in one-on-one interviews and focus groups.
  • Transcription, coding and analysis – The interview transcripts were coded using best practice inductive and deductive methods, as well as Atlas.ti and SPSS software.
  • Write-up – Following the analysis, key conclusions were drawn from the findings and optional recommendations and quick wins were developed for the refinery.

The findings from the climate and culture survey informed Engen’s executive of perceptions related to the working environment and organisational culture at the refinery and its impact on morale, motivation and productivity among both employees and managers. Mthente’s recommendations assisted in providing direction in addressing concerns. The climate and culture survey also helped identify – in their own words – the things that would re-energise and motivate employees and managers.