Int Conf AIDS. 1998;12:1084 (abstract no. 60459). Unique Identifier :

ISSUE: An extensive evaluation of a single department in an AIDS Service Organization (ASO) highlighted serious problems in the entire organization. The organization was not achieving desired results in HIV prevention and health promotion, and morale was low. The structure of the organization and the culture that had grown there stood in the way of innovation and accountability. PROJECT: Moving on from the problems identified in the evaluation, management, staff, volunteers, and clients engaged in a series of discussions to confirm the agency's purpose. Agreements were made about ownership and responsibility. People committed to the purpose and new structures were developed. RESULTS: Members reached consensus regarding the purpose of the organization. They developed and committed to a set of principles that guide their work and their relationships. Front line staff gained more control over their own work. The agency as a whole created a supportive and creative corporate culture. LESSONS LEARNED: AIDS Service Organizations need to respond to the demands of a rapidly changing environment. The organizational structure and culture are too often impediments to innovation. A troubled workplace can be rejuvenated when management gives up some power and everyone takes on responsibility for creating the organization.

MEETING ABSTRACTS Evaluation Studies Health Promotion/*ORGANIZATION & ADMIN Human HIV Infections/*PREVENTION & CONTROL Morale Organizational Culture Voluntary Workers/ORGANIZATION & ADMIN