Evaluation of Sociotechnical Systems in Managing Corporate Social Responsibility and Stakeholders' Engagement

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to explore at the Finnish Kemira Corporation how a corporation manages corporate social responsibility (CSR) and stakeholders' engagement. Greimas' actantial model and Senge's five disciplines were applied to evaluate CSR reports with a sociotechnical systems approach in relation to the stakeholders: (1) employees, (2) suppliers, (3) financiers and shareholders, and (4) communities and authorities. It was found that issues of CSR management and stakeholder engagement should be involved in strategic corporate decision making. The business strategy of the corporation emphasizes adherence to CSR guidelines and business standards that reflect the concerns of the stakeholders. CSR strategic procedures indicate the implementation of the corporation's measures to promote and pursue CSR goals that extend beyond their legal responsibilities.