MInd the GAP a Cross-Cultural metaphorical Analysis of TQM

摘要

fIntercultural leaders must increase their competerncies in communicating ideas from one context to another across cultural gaps. One of the most effective means of such ocmmunicatio is the use of metaphors. These help understand meanings of new experiences when they use a coherent gestalt from one domain of experience to structure experience in another. One of the sigificant systems of metaphors used by today's business organizations is that of Total Quality Management. TQM concepts were originated by Americans, developed in Japan, and reintroduced to americn businesses. By drawing on the extensive TQM literature of both japan and the United states, sets of metaphors for continuous improvement are developed which show the differences and simularities in mindsets that confront those attempting to transplant the TQM experiences of one country into a different one. A spiral development Model is proposed to assist in the process of introducing TQM elenents to a new business culture.