IBM's Values and Corporate Citizenship

Posted: 26 Oct 2009

Date Written: September 16, 2009

Abstract

The transformation of IBM into a globally-integrated enterprise (GIE) began with a conviction about what should never change. Since its founding in 1911, IBM was known for a strong culture and a commitment to fairness and social responsibility, operating under a set of principles articulated by founder Thomas Watson. As IBM entered its second century, it was appropriate to take a fresh look while remaining unwavering in ethics, integrity, and - to use the twenty-first century word - the highest standards of corporate citizenship. All of this could be done with strategic use of IBM technology and innovation. Yet IBMers in a variety of business roles and geographies also wanted the company to do even more. Members of IVT5 pondered this, and other global citizenship possibilities as they reviewed how people were developed and worked in IBM today, as the transition to the GIE was underway.

Suggested Citation

Moss Kanter, Rosabeth, IBM's Values and Corporate Citizenship (September 16, 2009). HBS Case No. 308-106, Harvard Business School General Management Unit, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1494424

Rosabeth Moss Kanter (Contact Author)

Harvard Business School ( email )

Soldiers Field Road
Morgan 270C
Boston, MA 02163
United States
617-495-6053 (Phone)

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