A two-country analysis using hofstede

   Australia and Indonesia have been selected as two countries to illustrate Hofstede's findings because the two countries are relatively close to each other (geographically), yet there seems to be large cultural gaps between the countries. Australia and Indonesia are also strong trade partners with important political linkages. Note: For ease of description the country scenarios will be examined from the situation of an Australian Manager working in Indonesia.

   Power Distance

   The two countries are poles apart on these two dimensions. An Australian working in Indonesia will find the following differences from his or her more familiar cultural environment:

         A formal hierarchy with each tier wielding more power than the rank below.

         Management will be centralised, subordinates are unlikely to be consulted or expected to participate in decision-making.

   Individualism/Collectivism

   This dimension represents the most striking difference between the two countries. Indonesians tend to be highly collective. Australians on the other hand are individually motivated. An Australian working in Indonesia will find the following differences from his or her more familiar cultural environment:

         The employees will be team-oriented and group motivated. An individual's achievement will be attached to group promotion. While the Australian will say "I did this", an individual in Indonesia will say "we did this".

   Masculinity/Femininity

   There is only a small variance on this scale between Australia and Indonesia. Both countries tending to be middle of the road, Australia slightly biased towards a Masculine culture. The Indonesian workforce will show more affection and compassion than would the Australian workforce who will be more task-oriented and result-focussed. An Australian working in Indonesia will find:

         Indonesian workers will have strong bonds and maintain personal relationships. Belonging to the group is more important than pleasing the boss. Workers will tend to socialise at work, more than Australian workers.

   Uncertainty Avoidance

   The countries were similar in this dimension, both tending to plan for future events, neither culture has much fear of making decisions or of the unknown.