Variables Affecting Corporate Globalization

Abstract

Globalization has a major affect in the expansion of corporate businesses. Technology is the driven force that makes this development of corporation possible. In this paper, a theoretical framework is done to identify the dependent and independent variables for the hypothesis stating "Is collaborative technology in virtual business teams a facilitator of corporate globalization". The paper is completed by writing a research design supporting the same hypothesis mentioned above.

Variables Affecting Corporate Globalization

Introduction As mentioned in my previous paper, Technology plays an important role in corporate globalization. The use of e-mails, instant messaging, audio and video conferencing and modern software and hardware enable virtual teams to connect together enhancing the productivity of the corporate. In this paper, theoretical framework is completed on the hypothesis stating: "Is collaborative technology in virtual business teams a facilitator of corporate globalization." There are one dependent variable and two independent variables found in this hypothesis. The dependent variable is corporate globalization since it is the factor that we are investigating. Collaborative technology and virtual teams are the two independent variables. Those variables are called independent because they tend to influence the dependent variable which is globalization. Theoretical framework In order for corporate globalization to survive, two important variables must be considered. Collaborative technology and virtual teams are the two independent variables that facilitate the growth of corporate globalization.

Corporate globalization

Independent variable

Dependent variable

Variables Affecting Corporate Globalization

Technology has become very important for businesses to operate globally. Team members of virtual businesses are scattered in different geographical regions where some kind of technology is needed for them to collaborate and work effectively. With the help of modern technology, it is possible to have efficient communication. This communication is facilitated through software (such as Corel and Lotus), hardware, e-mails, telephone, web conferencing, groupware, instant messaging, etc. Therefore, virtual projects are completed effectively and in a timely manner. Managers are remotely monitoring employees' activities to ensure that work is being done properly. Presentations are being prepared and shared among employees by taking advantage of this technology. However, neglecting the use of right technology in business, can exhibit a negative effect on the growth of the company. Team members are capable to work more collaboratively when compatible technology is applied. Therefore, employing the right technology in a business is every essential. When using technology, it is very crucial to keep in mind that it is implemented to expedite work, empower communication of virtual teams and enhances their productivity by making work simpler and uncomplicated. For example, the proper use of innovative technology made it possible for Ford Motor Company to establish seven virtual design teams to build the Mondeo car model. Therefore the relationship of technology and corporate globalization depends on the use of proper technology.

The second independent variable that affects corporate globalization is virtual teams. Effective communication of virtual team members is essential for productivity. Integrating a state of the art technology that is suitable to a corporate without team collaboration will not drive the company toward success. Therefore, different elements should be addressed for a successful partnership among virtual teams. When choosing virtual team members, authorities should make

Variables Affecting Corporate Globalization

sure to select people that are suitable to a particular job or project and Train those employees for collaborative team work. Training can include communication skill, self-management skills, technology skills, project management skills and Incorporation of motivating reward to encourage the highest achievement. The use of technology and virtual teams in corporate globalization has been increasing. With the practice of proper technology, many tasks can be facilitated for virtual members to accomplish. Collaborative team work is the foundation of the organization. Such teams can increase the productivity when the right people chosen for certain task and trained accordingly.

Part II

Research design is the bond that adhere the project together. There are two types of research, quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research is studying the relationship between the independent variable and dependent variable in a given hypothesis. In the other hand, the qualitative research is exploring a topic or understanding a phenomenon to gain more knowledge of it. I will be focusing on quantitative research since my hypothesis addresses this type of research.

After conducting a theoretical framework on the hypothesis, a research design will be implemented using Sekaran diagram as a guide. According to Sekaran there are several elements to be included in a research design. Those elements include the purpose of the study, study setting, type of investigation, extent of researcher interference, unit analysis and time horizon. Below is a table explaining the research design that fit