Case Study #2: “Kiwi Samurai” Questions
Submit your responses in a Word document with an MLA-style header. Omit the questions/prompts from the final document and only provide your responses as numbered (i.e., 1, 2, 3a/b, 4).
1. The Japanese culture displays several strong characteristics including:
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- Group (relationship) orientation.
- Hierarchy and high power distance.
- High uncertainty avoidance.
- Long-term orientation.
Identify and discuss the ways in which business practices in Japan, as described in the case, display/reflect these cultural characteristics. (15 points)
2. Identify and describe the personal characteristics of Eion Williams (his Cultural Intelligence – CQ) and the steps he has taken that appear responsible for the success of SecureFit’s business relationship with Masanobu of Japan. (10 points)
3. From the facts presented in the case, do you believe that the transition from Eion Williams to Mark Blyth will be successful? Explain why or why not citing specific examples from the case. Consider two aspects (15 points):
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- The actions/preparations taken or not taken by Eion Williams to prepare for the hand-over.
- Mark Blyth himself – his personal background, experiences, and actions prior to taking over from Eion.
4. Identify recommendations, both personal and business wise, for Mark Blyth to help insure his transition and future relationship between SecureFit and Masanobu is successful? (10 points)
Submit your responses in a Word document with an MLA-style header. Omit the questions/prompts from the final document and only provide your responses as numbered (i.e., 1, 2, 3a/b, 4).
