Question

Define monochronic and polychronic time. Give an example of each. Which cultures tend to be monochromic? Which cultures tend to be polychromic?

Answer 1

Monochronic time means doing one thing at a time. It requires careful planning and scheduling. Monochronic defines a precise reckoning of time and promptness, here time is viewed as a discrete commodity. Example for monochronic are Americans.

Polychronic time means people tend to handle multiple things concurrently or intermittently during a time period and to emphasize the number of completed transactions and the number of people involved, rather than the adherence to time schedule. Aboriginal and Native americans are typical examples of polychronic time.

Monochronic cultures

Interpersonal relations - Interpersonal relations are subordinate to present schedule and are accustomed to short term relationships.

Activity Coordination - Schedule coordinates activity. Apppointment time is rigid

Organizational perception - Activities are isolated from organization as a whole, task are measured by output in time.

Polychronic cultures

Attention to time - Think about what will be achieved.

Priority - Relationships first

Information - Are high context and already have information

Focus - Are easily distracted.