Dimensions Worksheet

Adapted from the book Culture Matters, Craig Storti (2011)

High Power Distance (Hierarchical)

People in these cultures accept that inequalities in power and status are natural or existential. In
the same way they accept that some people are smarter than others, people accept that some will
have more power and influence than others. Those with power tend to emphasize it, to hold it
close and not delegate or share it, and to distinguish themselves as much as possible from those
who do not have power. They are, however, expected to accept the responsibilities that go with
power, to look after those beneath them. Subordinates are not expected to take initiative and are
closely supervised.

Low Power Distance (Egalitarian)

People in these cultures see inequalities in power and status as largely artificial; it is not natural,
though it may be convenient, that some people have power over others. Those with power,
therefore, tend to deemphasize it, to minimize the differences between themselves and
subordinates, and to delegate and share power to the extent possible. Subordinates are rewarded
for taking initiative and do not like close supervision.

Monochronic (M)
Time is the given and people are the variable. The needs of people are adjusted to suit the
demands of time—schedules, deadlines, etc. Time is quantifiable, and a limited amount of it
is available. People do one thing at a time and finish it before starting something else, regardless
of circumstances.

Polychronic (P)
Time is the servant and tool of people. Time is adjusted to suit the needs of people. More time
is always available, and you are never too busy. People often have to do several things
simultaneously, as required by circumstances. It’s not necessary to finish one thing before
starting another, nor to finish your business with one person before starting in with another.

Individualist
The individual identifies primarily with self, with the needs of the individual being satisfied before those
of the group. Looking after and taking care of oneself, being self-sufficient, guarantees the well being of
the group. Independence and self-reliance are greatly stressed and valued. In general, people tend to
distance themselves psychologically and emotionally from each other. One may choose to join groups, but
group membership is not essential to one’s identity or success. Individualist characteristics are often
associated with men and people in urban settings.

Collectivist
One’s identity is in large part a function of one’s membership and role in a group, e.g., the family or work
team. The survival and success of the group ensures the well-being of the individual,
so that by considering the needs and feelings of others, one protects oneself. Harmony and the
interdependence of group members are stressed and valued. Group members are relatively close
psychologically and emotionally, but distant toward nongroup members. Collectivist characteristics are
often associated with women and people in rural settings.
 Power Distance
Characteristics & Behaviors

Put an “H” if you think it reflects an attitude of High Power distance, or an “L” if Low
Power Distance is more likely.

____1. It’s OK to question the boss, students question teachers.

____2. Management style can be more authoritarian and paternalistic.

____3. Workers prefer precise instructions from superiors.

____4. Subordinates have more initiative; bosses delegate more responsibilities.

____5. Those in power have special privileges.

____6. The chain of command is sacred – people don’t go around it even if it is

more practical to do so.

____7. The chain of command is mainly for convenience.

____8. Interaction between boss and subordinate is more informal.

____9. Freedom of thought is encouraged.

____10. Freedom of thought could get you into trouble.

____11. Emphasis on who is in charge.

____12. Emphasis on who is best qualified.

 Monochronic and Polychronic
Characteristics & Behaviors

Put an “M” if you think it is more likely to apply to people living in a monochronic
culture, and a “P” for polychronic culture.

____1. Do one thing at a time, finish it on time, move onto the next item.

____2. Multiple items are open at the same time, and attention diverts from one
to another.

____3. Being late is rude, having to wait is an insult.

____4. Being late is understandable, being made to wait is normal.

____5. The focus is on: the person, the internal clock, process, momentary
pleasure or profit.

____6. The focus is on: the task, the external clock, getting the job done. Time is
money.

____7. Plans are fixed, once agreed upon; schedules are sacred.

____8. Plans are always changing; deadlines are an approximation.

____9. Interruptions are seen as normal.

____10. People are concerned about not disturbing others; avoid interruptions.
 Individualist – Collectivist
Characteristics & Behaviors

If the statement is more likely to apply to people living in an individualist culture, write “I” in the
underlined blank space; if you think it is characteristic of a collectivist culture, write “C.”

____1. Self-interest and individual goals are more important than group interest
and goals.

____2. People adhere to tradition.

____3. Short-term relationships are common.

____4. It’s okay to stand out.

____5. Group harmony is important.

____6. Self-help books are popular.

____7. Indirect communication is more common.

____8. There is a need for autonomy.

____9. People are promoted based more on production and results, less on
seniority.

____10. Contracts in business are used frequently.

____11. People change jobs frequently.

____12. People believe that conflict clears the air.

____13. The language has a word for mother’s brother, another for father’s brother.

____14. People hold cocktail parties and other networking events.

____15. It is consistent with the orientations Hierarchical and Polychronic

____16. It is consistent with the orientations Egalitarian and Monochronic