The Role of Multicultural Teams in Improving Efficiency in Save the Children Kenya, an International Non Governmental Organisation
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Date
2012-08Author
Liko, Lavington A
Type
ThesisLanguage
enMetadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The role of multicultural teams in multinational and international organizations has
significance in the present day globalized world. The utility of the multicultural teams is
acknowledged not only by departmental managers and directors but also by the
employees. However certain associated dysfunctional conflicts hinder the performance of
multicultural teams. Faced with this scenario and with the current turbulent business
environment, the purpose of this study was to establish the role of multicultural teams in
improving efficiency in the organization. The research design employed in this study was
a case study and 15 respondents were interviewed in Save the Children Kenya. Primary
data was collected using an interview guide. The study used the content analysis method
of data analysis. To ensure easy analysis, the data was tabulated and was presented by use
of charts. Based on the findings, the study found out that both managers and multicultural
team members are aware of the growing importance of multicultural teams, their role and
impact on efficiency. It seems to be the case that multiculturalism in all forms of our
social identity is beneficial as long the manager notices it and shares it with the team.
However there are certain reservations as well. The study concluded that to improve
efficiency of multicultural teams, organizations need to invoke cultural differences and
built-in action strategies under the influence of cultural values which individuals bring
along from different parts of the world.
This includes the culture of home, work place, social, regional and national level or the
places in the world where s/he lived. The study recommends that the organization should
introduce courses, seminars and trainings on culture to staff in order for them to
understand the cultural differences among team members.
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The researcher suggests that a similar study should be done focusing on other industries
in Kenya. This is because different industries apply different strategy options and thus the
role of multicultural teams in improving efficiency in Save the Children Kenya is
different from those of other sectors. Secondly, a study can be carried out on the possible
solutions to the challenges faced by multicultural teams in organizations in Kenya.
Publisher
University of Nairobi