Diagnosis of internal environment and high penetration factors in a military medical sciences university in Tehran, Iran

Background and Aim: Analysis of the internal environment of an organization is an important factor in strategic decision making and the starting point of establishing an improvement plan to optimize the organization's performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the internal environment using an organizational diagnosis model and identifying high impact factors in a military medical university in Tehran. Methods: This analytical study was performed at a military medical university in Tehran, Iran in 2012. A total of 268 employees were selected by an available sampling method. Employees then completed the Weisbord questionnaire of internal environment analysis which was provided along with a description of the subject of the research. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Using SPSS software-18 to identify correction priorities (high penetration factors), the mean method and sorting in each question were used. Results: The internal environment of the military University of Medical Sciences was considered to have relative points of strength in the questionnaire’s components of purpose (5.486), structure (5.087), leadership (5.257), communication (5.211), helpful mechanisms (5.054) and attitude towards change (5.001), according to the cut-off point (=4); however rewards (4.462) component was not considered strong. Conclusion: The internal environment of the military University of Medical Sciences in Tehran is recognized as having relative strengths in some domains; however the reward mechanism domain needs to be reviewed and refined as a priority. High penetration factors include determination of clear objectives through employee participation, greater flexibility and optimal job sharing. Modification of reward mechanisms and performance-based pay, increasing leadership skills and training in communication skills among staff can improve organization's strength.