Geert Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions

The “Dimensions of culture” is an industry tool which is used to measure the cultural differences. The commonly used dimension is Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions. This model identifies four primary “Dimensions of Culture” to provide assistance in differentiating cultures.  You can find below the descriptions of their intents.

Power Distance (PDI):

PDI is referred to the degree of inequality which exists and accepted especially the powerless members of a group, organization, institution or a society.

High PDI – The society which accepts an unequal distribution of power and people understand “their role” in the system; it is concerned with more for hierarchy and a reluctance to speak up.

Low PDI – This type of power is shared and dispersed with people view themselves as equals. Employees perceive managers as less approachable, communication flows with respect to up and downwards.

Individualism (IDV):

IDV refers to the strength of the people ties to have others within the community.

High IDV – People with little sharing or responsibility. The tendencies to make use of “I” form more frequently, sometimes considered as self-centered and arrogant.

Low IDV – The primary key of strong group cohesion. The tendencies to make use of “We” form more frequently, sometimes considered as indecisive, weak, not assertive, not aggressive and hierarchical.

Masculinity (MAS):

MAS refer to an indication of the esteem according to the traditional masculine work role model of achievement, control and power.

High MAS - There is a huge level of male dominance and less gender equality in MAS workplace.

Low MAS - There is a huge equality between males and females in low MAS workplace. It also has an advantage of feminine values such as compromise, etc.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI):

UAI referred to the culture’s tolerance for ambiguity, unstructured situations & unplanned events.

High UAI –Employees perform at their best level with clear directives and follow the standards and procedures.

Low UAI - Employees tend to “go with a flow” which are more flexible and does not require instructions and rules while performing.

Long-Term Orientation (LTO):

LTO is referred to the degree to which the society which upholds traditional values. High or low dimensions predispose countries to accept change.

High LTO –The long term commitments and hard work as a future plan rewards the need for the rapid change.

Low LTO – A society change can occur faster long term traditions do not obstruct them.

These Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions are used as a guide in understanding the difference in culture between countries.

Questions:

• Explain about Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions.
• State and explain about Individualism dimension in Geert Hofstede’s Model.