An Investigation into Cultural Dimensions of Construction Professionals Working for International Projects in Oman

摘要

International construction projects involve multinational participants with different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. To execute international projects, construction companies easily face significant risks which hinder the capability to create profits and degrade company credibility. One of the major risk factors affecting project performance and success is cultural characteristics of project participants, especially expatriates, working in international construction projects. This research investigates the cultural dimensions of Indian, Sri Lankan and British construction professionals working for international projects in Oman. Cultural dimensions have been surveyed by a quantitative approach. The outcomes indicate that even though these professionals are working in the same construction industry and currently in similar working environments, their cultural dimensions are mainly influenced by national culture. Further Asian participants of the survey showed lower Power Distance Index (PDI) and Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) than their national cultural dimensions. This is a reflection of westernization of their companies in the international construction markets. Also lower Long Term Orientation (LTO) indicates the temporary tendency of employment in international construction projects. Further research will need to focus on the relationship between corporate culture and national culture to complete the entire picture of culture in construction.