Question of exam - Coursework Example

Introduction Culture plays an important role in deciding whether a firm will be able to succeed in any given international market or not. International marketers need to take into account the cultural dynamics because understanding values, moral standards as well as ideas differ across cultures. Saudi Arabia is the most holly place in Muslim world and therefore carries significant importance for global Muslim culture. This paper will therefore focus upon understanding culture of Saudi Arabia and UK to understand parameters of international market segment.

Hofstede Cultural Dimension for Saudi Arabia Power Distance 1. Society is inherently unequal where not all people have the same status whereas UK as a society is based upon equality of all. 2. The centralization of power means subordinates have to be told what to do. Work ethics in UK are relatively different where subordinates are empowered. 3. For a firm like McDonald, it is therefore critical that they hire such managers who are able to ensure that traditional power structures within the organization are maintained.

Further, employees may need to be trained regarding Individualism 1. There is low individualism in the country and society as such is considered as collectivistic. British society is based upon individualism with greater emphasis on individual liberty and choice. Firms like McDonald will have to make sure that its teams work effortlessly with more emphasis on developing a collective thought process. Disadvantages of this theory 1. Culture cannot be viewed only on the basis of these five dimensions 2.

These dimensions are good to differentiate between the countries but not good to differentiate individuals. 3. Gender differences are not taken into consideration Hall’s Model 1. Saudi Arabia is a high context culture as there are many things which are taken for granted because they fall into the set religious rules of the country. British society however, is a low context society with more openness with low commitments with relationships and high regard for tasks. McDonald’s therefore has to ensure that all its ingredients are made according to Islamic traditions especially the way how chickens are slaughtered. 2. There is a lesser concern for doing things on time as opposite to British corporate values.

More emphasis is on building relationships. McDonald has to ensure that the local employees hired work efficiently and on time besides the strategic alliances formed with local business partners deliver the required strategic objectives on time. 3. There is low territoriality in Saudi society because sense of stealing is less prevalent there. McDonald therefore can expect a certain degree of fairness and honesty from its employees. Disadvantages 1. This model lacks empirical validity 2. The success of firms depends largely on the relationships Conclusion Hofstede’s model may not provide a clear description of Saudi Society as it misses certain important elements of Saudi Culture.

Hall’s model suggests that Saudi Arabia is a high context society whereas Trompenaars cultural dimensions outline that status in Saudi society comes from overall background of the individuals and not the achievements.