Organization Development and National Culture: Where's the Fit?

Abstract

Organization development is one of many American management techniques utilized overseas. Based on an empirically derived model of culture, the underlying values of OD are compared to those that predominate in 40 countries. Specific OD interventions are then examined separately to determine their fit with the values of these countries. The results help explain why OD has encountered problems and provide guidelines for selecting and carrying out interventions in a culturally sensitive manner.