You are in the role of project manager for a coffee franchise global expansion project. You plan to expand
into two different countries. The magnitude of the project requires you to prepare for the project kickoff
meeting and business negotiations with the project team who are potential partners from Mexico and China.
You understand that these cultures are vastly different. They have different business customs, social
protocols, and languages, so conducting business with each country requires a customized approach.
To prepare for your first outreach effort with each country, analyze the cultural similarities and differences
that exist between the countries and the United States using Geert Hofstede's Six Cultural Dimensions (link
here and below) as discussed in the assignment notes, chats, etc. Note that the two countries are
characterized by collectivism while the United States has an individualist culture.
Once you have done your research, compare and contrast each country according to your findings. Discuss
the implications of the relative cultural dimensions based on what you read related to Hofsteds from the web
site. How might they impact managing the global expansion project? Remember that you are adapting your
approach from a United States point of view. (400-600 words).
This assignment lays the foundation for IP4, where you will apply your findings to forming an effective global
team.
Step One:
Visit Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions
Step Two:
Create a country comparison using the United States in first dropdown menu box to see the values for the
six cultural dimensions. After selecting the United States, a second country can be chosen in the second
dropdown menu box. Keep the United States in the first box and then repeat for each country (Mexico and
China) involved in the fast food expansion project to see a comparison of their scores.
Step Three:
Using your findings:
Explain Hofstede’s cultural dimensions.
Using the United States as a basis for comparison, evaluate each country's similarities and differences
relative to the franchise business deployment.
Discuss the implications for your initial communications within each country. For example, what is the
impact of collectivism relative to individualism regarding management communication?
Sample Solution