Week 1: The Global Manager's Environment
Learning Reflection: Standardization Versus Localization
To prepare for this Learning Reflection on what globalization really is consider Levitt T.'s argument that due to the advent of modern communications and transport technologies, consumer tastes and preferences are becoming global. According to him, this is creating global markets for standardized consumer products.
Do you think this position is extreme?
Do substantial differences still exist between countries? To address these questions assume that the top management of a company manufacturing and marketing women's apparels has decided to pursue international expansion opportunities in South-East Asia. Also assume that in order to achieve some economies of scale, management is aiming toward a strategy of standardization (or at least of minimum local adaptation).
Would standardized clothes work for every South-East Asian country?
Would adaptation to local conditions be essential?
By Friday of this week, respond to the above in no more than 1 single-spaced page.
By Friday of this week, submit your 1-page Learning Reflection using the submission link located in the online classroom.
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