Discussion - Analysis and Synthesis of Prior ResearchFor Dr. Rocal

Weeks 5–6: Dynamic Multicultural and Virtual Teams

Introduction

Multicultural virtual teams not only affect relational aspects of organizations but also an organization's success. According to Gatlin-Watts (2007), organizations that can rapidly create global virtual teams to meet customer needs may have a competitive advantage. The authors share lessons learned from the implementation process of a multicultural, virtual teaming project. Focus on the steps taken to foster cultural understanding, build trust, solicit widespread input, and balance control with shared objectives.

Bergiel, Bergiel, & Balsmeier (2008) provide recommendations for managing virtual, global teams. They include suggestions for preventing conflict, scheduling and facilitating meetings, and using technology to facilitate group work effectiveness. They also list various advantages and disadvantages of using virtual global teams. The authors base their findings on both literature review and interviews.

Lu, Watson-Manheim, Chudoba, & Wynn (2006) investigate the effects of perceived variety in work practices and processes on virtual team performance. Their research stems from the collected survey data of 1,200 Intel employees as well as a smaller number of interviews with the company's employees. Consider how their findings may apply to other types of organizations, including the non-profit sector or governmental agencies.

During the next two weeks, you will explore a portion of the literature that is focused on the practical skills necessary to manage global virtual teams as you review the lessons learned from implementations in the field. Focus on the skills illuminated in the literature, and assess the skills that you need to either develop or further enhance your global leadership success.

Learning Outcomes By the end of this week, you will be able to:

· Define the breadth of knowledge and experience required to develop organizational structures that support global collaboration.

· Assess the strengths and weaknesses of working with multicultural and global teams.

· Articulate key technology platforms that may be utilized to reduce barriers within virtual teams.

· Analyze new global leadership insights related to the promotion of intercultural collaboration.

· Synthesize conclusions and outcomes in the field of multicultural management.

· Identify opportunities for new research regarding multicultural and virtual global teams.