ABSTRACT
The main aim of this report is to theoretically investigate multi-cultural projectteams and the challenges faced by the 21
st
century project manager.Formulate practical solutions to the investigated challenges that can beimplemented to any multi-cultural project. A literature study is done, followedby practical solutions and the a flowchart (model) is created to depict how the21
st
century project manager will be able to successfully function in a multi-cultural project team.
1. INTRODUCTION
Multicultural teams are been seen more than ever before. Foreign bordershave weakened and globalisation is increasing and this is bringing together people of different nationalities and cultures into the work environment. This isnow making people more aware of cultural differences and thinking styles thatare creating negative preconceptions. Cultural differences are raising strongbarriers and encouraging working in “silos”. This creates a huge challenge for project managers working across international boundaries, especially thosewho do not have a very diverse cultural background.In South-Africa project managers have the luxury of dealing with very diverseproject teams. This helps and gives a good grounding for foreign projects.However there are also many challenges that are incurred whilst undertakinga multicultural foreign project ,and sound project management skills andtechniques are needed to produce a successful project.
2. LITERATURE STUDY
2.1 WHAT IS CULTURE?
“Culture is defined as the shaping of the mind that distinguishes the membersof one group or category of people from those of another. It is expressed asthe collective values, norms, traditions, myths and institutions that arecharacteristic among members of a group.Culture defines people, context, human relationships and leadership –virtually every aspect of business. People who share the same culture neednot be constantly mindful of the implications of their behaviour. They canpredict accurately the reactions of those with whom they interact. The codesfor interpreting the environment, attaching values and priorities to thatinformation, classifying behaviours acceptable or not, and recognising socialrank, are all passed from one generation to the next through the culturalprocess. “
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Culture surrounds everyone in the work and project environment, it influencesour actions and everything we do and perceive. Culture influences how theworld is perceived. People in different cultures perceive the world differently
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