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T+D, Feb, 2003 by Pat Zakian Tith

Globe Smart

GlobeSmart is a Web-based tool that gives detailed information on how to conduct business in 35 countries. It provides information on communicating effectively, managing employees, transferring technology and skills, and improving relationships with international customers and suppliers. First-time users entering the site have two choices: go directly to a country or take the quick tour. Take the quick tour. It reveals dimensions of the tool that even experienced users could miss.

After completing the tour, you have to select a country of interest. Once chosen, you're given a map of the country and a list of key cities. Along the left-hand side of the window is a menu tree of topics, where you can access detailed information on culture and customs, business skills, and country facts. Whenever you select a subject area, there's always a link to "a note about stereotypes." That reminds users that there's no such thing as a cultural absolute, a critical point for anyone working internationally.

One of the more powerful features is the ability to write about your own experiences, a capability that breathes life into the information provided. You can then cross-reference user notes by topic and country.

Features in Depth

Global Tips gives a quick overview of areas to consider when working globally, such as working with Muslim colleagues.

Business Ethics is somewhat weak. It fails to navigate the tricky issue of the various ways different cultures define words related to business ethics.

Peer Notes is a database that enables a company to collect and disseminate knowledge specific to its own operations abroad. The company's expatriates, country experts, and business travelers are interviewed periodically and a proprietary corporate memory of key information is created, which can then be put into the hands of those who need it. This optional feature has a one-time cost of US$7500.

The Self-Assessment Profile is the most powerful component of GlobeSmart. Users answer a 20-question profile that measures their preferred work style. Results are plotted along four dimensions of behavior that affect the way people do business.

The results of user profiles are saved and accessible on an ongoing basis. Users can immediately see how their profiles compare with the profile of someone that they'll be working with. The feature then provides strategies and suggestions for effective interaction.

Tests and case studies enable you to test your skills in such areas as business, culture, and customs. If you choose the wrong answer, a window opens up automatically telling you why your choice isn't the best one and the reasons why.

A Names and Phrases Section enables you, using a media player, to practice your pronunciation. A useful search feature is also included.

Recommendation

If your organization wants to grow globally, seriously consider GlobeSmart. It will accelerate the global learning curve of any company. Despite the high sticker price (US$10,000 to $65,000), the possibility of avoiding costly global blunders can justify the purchase. In addition, the tool is regularly improved with new features.

Globe Smart

****         Holds user interest
****          Production quality
****          Ease of navigation
*** 1/2            Interactivity
****            Value of content
****         Instructional value
****         Value for the money
****              Overall rating

GlobeSmart, online, 1999, Meridian Resources Associates: 800.626.2047, www.meridianglobal.com. Purchase: US$10,000 to $65,000.

Pat Zakian Tith is president of Global Workplace in Washington. D.C. She is a sociolinguist who specializes in the impact of culture on business behavior and practices in the global workplace; pattith@globalworkplace.com