A Critical Approach to Hofstede’s Model on Cultural Dimensions

Hofstede’s model on cultural dimensions to explain cultural difference has been widely used for exploring different aspects of culture, from management to educational settings. Based on his research from the beginning of 1970, Geert Hofstede created a new paradigm for the study of cultural differences, meaning a model of national culture on four dimensions, later expanded and updated on the basis of an analysis of other cross-cultural data and on the extrapolation of the model. Following the penetration of the model in the scientific community, it became a cornerstone for cross-cultural research, providing a popular method for the study of cultural differences in a wide range of disciplines. In the same time, as with any idea or paradigm shift, Hofstede doctrine has also generated controversies, being both undervalued and overused (Peterson, 2003). The purpose of our paper is to conduct an in-depth analysis on Hofstede model, revealing an objective reflection upon the work of Hofstede by tracking various subtleties and exploring some of its limitations, postulating that seeking commonalities among existing models of national culture represents the way in which cross-cultural research is offered the possibility to advance. As for the methodology applied, the goal of the paper is achieved by analyzing the pro and cons of Hofstede’s model and from the findings derived, by indentifying the keystones of a convergent widely accepted model. This paper has as main objective to understand and to approach the topic of the SMEs in the international competition, which, being considered a significant resource for those an organization is fundamental for the creation of the wealth since an appropriate administration takes place a series of benefits. Is it important to improve innovation potential, quality and operational excellence?.