Question

TASK A: Think of a fast food outlet or corporation that is operating in your country, but is also known world wide.

From your personal experience or otherwise, compare the similarities and differences in the company; (for example, in the products and services it offers; in the dress code; its operations, etc.)

TASK B: Describe the concept of cultural 'particularism'. Explain its influence in a shared global culture when transacting business

Answer 1

A. We all are very much comfortable with Mc Donald. It is one of the biggest fast food chain operating worldwide. In India, McDOnald’s is known for its affordable and economic meals. While, it’s not like in US or Japan. But, everywhere it is famous for its yummy burgers. In India, we can see a very less variety of Mc Donald’s as compared to what is offering in US and Japan. Huge differences in the menu, although menu difference exists in US and Japan too. Mc Donald’s is a very locally adaptive company. It adapts to local culture and change the menu as per the local tastes and preference like in India mostly small and economic range is been served at it is targeting middle and lower middle class. Talking upon the dress code of the service people, it is red stripped polo t shirts for women and white shirt for women in India while it has been seen that grey and black is the dress code in some other countries. So, it also depends on the different locations. Its operations part is also different like in India self-service is practised whereas food is served by waiters in some parts of Japan.

B. It is also known as historical particularism which states that each society or group collectively belongs to some particular culture and have a unique past which influence their behaviour and lifestyles. It have huge influence on business transactions in shared global culture as different societal groups believe and prefer working in a particular style or way. They will not prefer shared value unless and until their values are not matched. Thus in a global world where business is transacted worldwide, it is important to adopt global values which is not particular to one or two groups rather everyone should be comfortable.