cultural dimension response

This paper describes in the “abstract” portion what it will do. It makes it very clear that the web interface and different cultures will be discussed.
The paper goes on to describe the efficiency of the web interface in the introduction and it discusses how products can be sold online from various countries. Because the web reaches out to basically everyone in the world who has internet connection, it is important to be able to design with every different culture in mind.
Cultures are very different in simple ways. For instance, color scheme may have great importance from one culture to the other.
The paper goes on to discuss Geert Hofstede’s dimensions of culture that he came up with through a survey type deal. The five dimensions are: power-distance, collectivism vs. individualism, femininity vs. masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, long- vs. short-term orientation.
Power distance refers to the extent to which less powerful members expect and accept unequal power distribution within a culture.
Individualism in cultures implies loose ties; everyone is expected to look after one's self or immediate family but no one else. Collectivism implies that people are integrated from birth into strong, cohesive groups that protect them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty.
Masculinity and femininity refer to gender roles, not physical characteristics.
People vary in the extent that they feel anxiety about uncertain or unknown matters, as opposed to the more universal feeling of fear caused by known or understood threats. Cultures vary in their avoidance of uncertainty, creating different rituals and having different values regarding formality, punctuality, legal-religious-social requirements, and tolerance for ambiguity.
Two implications for technical communications are always know your audience, and are respectful toward it.
First, knowing your audience is always important because it helps set the tone of writing. It allows you know if you will be able to write in a relaxed style or a business type style.
Second, being respectful in your technical communication is always a must. You must be able to take into consideration different cultures and be respectful to that. Also, response letters, claim letters, memo’s, and emails should all be written respectfully and business like.