Masters of Collaboration

1. ‘Individualism’ and ‘Uncertainty Avoidance’ are the two main dimensions proposed by Hofstede which are mentioned in the text as influential factors in international collaboration. The text gives scores of the UK USA and Germany and Japan on these dimensions to illustrate the differences.

a) Look up the scores of these same countries on the remaining cultural dimensions on www.geert-hofstede.com | Power Distance | Individualism | Masculinity/Femininity | Uncertainity Avoidance | Long term orientation | US | 40 - Low which means equality and managers are accessible | 91 - Highly individualistic, look after themselves and close ones; are open and self-reliant | 62 - Masculine society, strive to be the best; talk freely about their achievements. Conflicts are resolved at individual level and the goal is to win | 46 - Uncertainty accepting, accept new ideas and initiatives; do not need rules and are less emotionally expressive | 29 - Low; short term oriented culture; focussed on traditions and fulfilling social obligations; businesses are measures on short term basis; need for quick results | UK | 35 - Low; Believes in removal of inequality between people | 89 - Highly individualistic and private people, Unique purpose and unique contribution, Personal fulfilment | 66 - Masculine society, Highly success oriented and driven; What is said is not always what is meant. | 35 - Happy with what would come along, Happy to change, not many rules, | 25 - Short term oriented society, drives respect from history and tradition, short term quarterly goals and quick results | Germany | 35 - Highly decentralized, supported by middle class; direct, Participitative communication; control is disliked; leadership is challenged to show expertise | 67 - Truly individualistic society, Small families, strong belief in the idea of self-actualization, Most direct form of communication. | 66 - Masculine society, Performance highly valued, people live in