Cultural Proximity and Organization: Managing Diversity and Innovation

Cultural proximity refers to shared language, codes, and norms of communication and exchange between actors, which can enhance communication and facilitate interaction. However, high levels of proximity can lead to lock-in and inertia, negatively impacting the innovativeness of an organization. This book explores the organizational implications of cultural proximity, delving into the managerial challenges posed by diversities and similarities in culture within a business environment. It emphasizes the importance of managing innovation through a deliberate orchestration of cultural proximity and diversity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Cultural proximity refers to the shared language, codes, and norms of communication and exchange between individuals or groups. It holds significant importance for organizations, as it enhances communication and facilitates interaction among actors. In such contexts, diversity is often perceived as a source of richness and originality, adding value to the organization. However, excessive proximity can also pose risks, leading to lock-in and inertia, which negatively impact the organization's innovativeness.

While the concept of cultural proximity is a subject of ongoing debate within organizations, a comprehensive understanding of it remains elusive. This book aims to explore the organizational implications of cultural proximity, delving into the managerial challenges posed by diversities and similarities in culture within a business environment. It employs various levels of analysis to examine the topic.

The key messages of this book are grounded in original empirical evidence. Here are the main takeaways:

Cultural proximity is a crucial factor for managing innovation in today's dynamic business landscape.
Innovation requires a deliberate orchestration of the dichotomy between cultural proximity and cultural diversity.
In certain circumstances, proximity can be beneficial for managers and entrepreneurs.

This book will be of value to researchers, academics, managers, and students in the fields of management science, human resource management, innovation studies, and organizational studies. It provides insights into the complexities of managing cultural diversity and proximity within organizations, offering practical strategies for effective leadership and decision-making.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367513184