Conditions of cultural cycle of continuation and organisational change on the example of NGOs

Purpose: The authors will answer two research questions: (1) What endogenous parameters of the cultural cycle in a given non-governmental organization introducing social innovations ensure its systemic stability, i.e. group and organizational morphostasis? (2) What parameters of the cultural cycle in a given organisation bring about its systemic change, that is, group and organisational mophogenesis? Design/methodology/approach: The research was based on assumptions of the morphogenetic theory of structure and agency, in particular types of reflexivity as a factor that conditioning social agency. They relate to the determination of endogenous conditions limiting the innovative activity of the surveyed nongovernmental organisations. Based on them and using the qualitative analysis of the data obtained during group interviews (FGI), a diagnosis of developmental limitations and barriers will be made. Findings: Among the members of the nongovernmental organisations surveyed, the dominance of the components of communicative reflexivity over autonomous reflexivity was diagnosed. This key cultural condition, which constitutes its morphostatic nature, i.e. focus on maintaining the organisational status quo, has anti-innovation potential. Most of the organisations members of the surveyed focused on maintaining the contextual continuity of the group and organisations, that is, reluctance toward new collective entities of action in NGOs, who question the existing status quo, that is, structural and/or cultural continuity. Such a context petrifies the level of tensions and social distances, and limits the innovative potential. Originality/value: The dominance of the components of communicative reflexivity over autonomous reflexivity is a key cultural condition that negatively shapes the functioning of Polish NGOs in the area of innovation.