TOPIC 1
Globalisation General Framework
In this topic, you are to research globalisation. The business press bombards us with ideas about
‘The shrinking world’, ‘the flat world’ and ‘the border-less world’ – all catchphrases to describe
the impact of globalisation. But are the (trade) borders really collapsing or are we seeing, post
GFC, a resurgence in them? What is behind the extreme demonstrations against globalisation at
G7 and WTC conferences?
Individual Components
1. World 3.0: P Ghemawat’s questioning of whether the world really is as ‘global’ as we are being
told it is and his ideas about how it could be globalised more effectively.
2. Anthony Giddens’ ideas on globalisation.
3. The “End of Poverty” movement and the contrary assertion that “Trade NOT aid” is the way to a
more globalised world that mitigates against poverty
TOPIC 2
Corporate or Organisational Culture General Framework
Discuss why corporate culture is such an important determinant of organisational success.
Outline the dimensions commonly used in describing a particular organisation’s culture.
Individual Components
Each individual should focus on one (or two) of the dimensions and identify a specific organisation
noted for its emphasis of that dimension. Describe how that organisation stresses that particular
component of organisation culture and comment on whether they have been successful. [Note:
Individual team members must choose different dimensions and thus outline different actual
cases.]
TOPIC 3
National Culture General Framework
Discuss why an understanding of national culture is important for multi-national or trans-national
corporations seeking to operate in a global business environment. Outline the dimensions
commonly used in describing national culture.
Individual Components
Each individual should choose a different country classifying it in terms of the commonly-used
dimensions for describing national culture. Choose the countries wisely so that differences can be
highlighted. Each member should seek to find specific examples in their country of choice to
illustrate the classification they have made.
