Cross-Cultural Adaptability of Organizational Change Interventions

Abstract

This article discusses the ability of the change agent, or OD practitioner to use intervention techniques across different cultures. It is proposed that a contingency approach must be employed in prescribing the appropriate technique, and that certain cultural typologies are helpful in deciding which intervention is most appropriate. In particular, the article uses the provided by Hofstede, Kluckhohn and Strodtbeck, and Trompenaars, to show how change management must be adapted to various cultural parameters.