Introduction

Cultural Issues

Designing systems that are compatible with multiple differing cultures as workplaces become more diverse

Levels of Cultures: IGONG (Individual, group, organisational, national, global)

Theories of Cultural Influence

Hofstede's Theory: 5 basic elements on which cultures can be distinguished

  1. Individualism/collectivism
  1. Power distance: The degree to which less powerful members accept and expect unequal distribution of power
  1. Uncertainty avoidance: Extent to which members of a culture feel comfortable in unstructured situations
  1. Masculinity/femininity: Distribution of emotional roles between genders
  1. Long-term vs Short-term orientation: Extent to which members expect immediate versus delayed gratification of their needs

Triandis' Model of Culture: 2X2 taxonomy

Horizontal cultures: Minimise distance between individuals

Vertical cultures: Accept and depend on said distances

History

  1. Hugo Munsterberg: Developed aptitude tests and work sample tests
  1. Walter Dill Scott: Developed multi-component selection system for salesperson with the use of application blanks
  1. Frederick Taylor: Scientific management (increase efficiency through better work design)
  1. Lillian Moller Gilbreth: Concerned with human aspects of work
  1. WWI: Alpha and Beta tests developed for US army recruitment
  1. WWII: Army General Classification Test, growth of engineering psychology
  1. Hawthorn effect: When workers know they are being studied, the results will change for a period of time, then level off after a while
  1. Human Relations Movement: Organisations seen as systems of human cooperation