Trompenaars and Hampden-Turner

Question 1

What did Trumpenaars and Hampden-Turner focus on?

Answer 1

Model of 7 Cultural dimension focuses on culture in business and administration

Question 2

what is more important-rules or relationships?

Answer 2

• In universalism, people will always follow a set of rules, and written contract are important. One does not differ between relationships when it comes to business

In Particularism, relationship is important, and one might make exceptions for family and friend. Personal bonds and trust are more important than written contracts

Question 3

Do we function in groups or as individuals?

Answer 3

• In individualism, decisions is made quicker as the representative can take the decision on the spot. We focus more on the “I.” here the individual is compensated for high performance

In collectivism we work as a group, and decisions are referred back to the organization. It is therefore a slow decision making process. The group is compensated for high performance.

Question 4

How do we separate our private and working lives?

Answer 4

• In Specific culture, business and private life are kept separate. Structured meetings with time slots, study objectives and are direct to the point

In diffuse culture, private and business are not kept separate. Meetings will not have a specific structure, and they study history as an aid in decision making

Question 5

Do we display our emotions?

Answer 5

• In Neutral culture, people try to hide their emotions. This is admired in the organization. Behavior is detached and cool

In affective culture, people express their emotions. Statements are emotional and dramatic, behavior is warm and expressive.

Question 6

Do we prove ourselves to get status, or is it given to us

Answer 6

• In achievement culture, people are respected for what they do. Decisions can be challenged by everyone. Technical and knowledgeable people are used in negotiations

In ascription culture, people are valued for what they are. Social status, education or age. Hierarchy is important. Authority is respected. Older people are used for convincing in negotiations

Question 7

Do we do thing one at a time, or several things at once?

Answer 7

• In Sequential culture, we do things one at a time depending on a planned schedule. It is rude to be late to a meeting.

In synchronous culture, several things are done at once. Ideas about the future and memories about the past shape present action. Punctuality is not as important

Question 8

Do we control our environment, or are we controlled by it?

Answer 8

• In internal direction cultures people believe they control the environment. Don’t like it when the environment seems “out of control.” these people focus on their group, and can have a dominating attitude.

In External direction cultures, people are controlled by the environment. They feel comfortable with shifts. They focus on the “other”, the costumer, partner and colleague, and are often flexible and willing to compromise

Question 9

What doe the model of 7 cultural dimensions focus on?

Answer 9

1. Relationship to other people
2. Perspective of time
3. Relationship towards enviornment