to use ... Concerned to provide practical solutions to practical problems.' This rationality is a dominant theme in the management literature. Selznick (1948: 25) articulated this by describing the formal organization as 'the structural expression of rational action'. Thus Functionalism offers a plausible explanation for the 'commonsensical' purposes of acquiring and utilizing managerial expertise, and disseminating corporate culture. The corporate objectives were to create a highly competent cadre of managers who accepted and shared IP cultural values, while managers sought favourable consequences in personal development and career advancement. These are examined below.Inculcating an IP CultureAccording to one IP manager: 'companies drift a lot all the time, but not culturally. if you can educate people about your culture, you'll stay afloat'. This perspective was evident in interviews and training manuals. Assignments are held at the Centre and business concepts are taught at IPI with a view to enhancing cultural values as illustrated in Figure 3. Specific cultural training programmes and seminars are designed to increase cultural sensitivity for international assignments. One aspect of business ethics is their policy not to engage in corrupt practices, even if it means loss of business. Various managers reported that training was not just about courses, but also about 'allowing people to make mistakes' in order to create trust, a learning environment, and an P perspective. According to one manager:'By being at the Centre you learn about the long-term strategy and culture and eventually become an IP man. Coming to the Centre has an aura of advancement, and it helps you to bring together your thoughts and beliefs which are more in line with the company. I always feel I move too fast for others, especially in Chile where the pace is really fast. But coming here slows you down, gets you to see things from the company's point of view.' (...
