Select country (other than any of the countries that are covered in the group presentation) and write a 2,400 word essay that apply some of the cross-cultural frameworks (i.e Hofstede, Hall, Trompenaars etc) to analyse her/his chosen country and COMPARE it with the one or more of the countries that were covered in in the group presentations.
The student will offer a critical analysis of the framework used adding his/her own view on the limitations of the framework used and it can be improved or complemented to better explain the influence of culture on a particular area of management (i.e. leadership, human resources, marketing, strategy etc.) in the countries of comparison.
Finally the student will propose some alternatives for organisations, managers or employees who are planning to do business with the (chosen) country in question.
In addressing the topic, should may consider the following suggestions:
• A concise, but clear Introduction that introduces the general core concept culture and its importance in management in a global context; outline and justify the importance of the cultural aspects that you plan to use in your analysis.
• Your own / chosen country culture:
- Geographical data, population, economy, religion, language
- Its core cultural elements: Values, religion, cultural events/celebrations, natural resources, political issues etc
- What the cultural aspects you choose can tell us about the culture of your country of choice - discuss these with reference to cross-cultural framework
• Compare your country with the other countries. Again frame the comparison on at least, two theoretical frameworks. Make an informed comment on the relevance and accuracy of the frameworks to describe a national culture. Include a critical analysis of the frameworks used here.
• Choose ONE aspect of management and compare the countries involved. For instance marketing, human resources (selection, recruitment, motivation, employment legislation, rewards), strategy.
• Synthesis and conclusions.
Format:-
1. Introduction
A lucid structure with a well-presented introduction, clearly definition the topic and setting out the scene and describing the countries involved and providing clear statement about the importance of culture. The introduction should also end with a clear outline of how the report is structured.
2. Analysis of your country
Use appropriate concepts and synthetic and sufficiently detailed and relevance information about the country.
3. Use of the theoretical frameworks
Use of two theoretical frameworks including a critical approach for each of them that is grounded in relevant literature.
4. One aspect of management
Analysis of one aspect of management in relation to each of the countries. The analysis needs to be supported by relevant academic literature. Bring relevant examples and apply independent thinking.
5. Conclusions
Relevant and interesting conclusions for managers aiming to work in your chosen country. Personal reflection that relate this with ethical aspects, global citizenship and sustainability.
Length : 2400 words.