Date
8-2020
Department
Graduate School of Business
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Chair
Betty Ahmed
Keywords
International Business, Regional Differences, Business Strategies, Multinational Companies
Disciplines
Business | International and Area Studies
Recommended Citation
Powell, Christopher Scott, "Assessing Whether the Regional Differences between Countries Influence Business Strategies of Multinational Companies" (2020). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 2627.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/2627
Abstract
The purpose of the qualitative multi-case study design study is to add to the body of knowledge by exploring how MNCs in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland (a) employ global approaches in their foreign market operations and (b) differ in their outcomes in international activities compared with their corresponding domestic operations. Findings from the study have shown that cultural differences between the home and host companies have a profound effect on the internationalization strategy. Most of the managers included in the study reported that their organizations encourage diversity and cultural competencies. They also recommended conducting a feasibility study to gain an in-depth understanding of the cultural influences that affect the internationalization plan for their respective MNCs. Feasibility studies and adequate planning allow MNC leadership/management to prepare adequately to navigate the complexities of the foreign culture being aware of the cultural norms and values. Second, the study has also highlighted the need of aligning the strategic plan of the MNC with the local culture. The alignment is necessary to ensure that MNCs develop strategic plans and goals that are responsive to the underlying cultural norms and values of the host country. The greatest challenge for MNCs is merging the local and global internationalization plans to achieve strategic goals.
