Interim CIO: Dr. Claus Michael Sattler
Cultural differences between IT teams
"What methods do you use to overcome cultural differences between IT teams at different companies?"
Cultural differences between IT teams: Holger Wetterich asked the following question on LinkedIn under my post “How an experienced interim CIO can help private equity companies integrate acquired companies”: “What methods do you use to overcome cultural differences between IT teams at different companies?”
My answer
I use the following methods to overcome cultural differences between IT teams in different companies:
Intercultural training
I organize regular training courses to promote intercultural sensitivity and awareness of cultural differences [source: 2] [source: 3].
Common working language
We define a standardized working language for communication between the teams in order to reduce misunderstandings[2].
Cultural bridge builders
I encourage employees to act as “cultural bridge builders” and help navigate cultural differences[1].
Virtual team building measures
I organize virtual cultural evenings and joint online projects to strengthen cohesion and promote mutual understanding[1].
Clear expectations and structures
I define clear expectations for the collaboration and communicate these consistently[3].
Promoting a culture of trust
I create an environment in which all team members feel comfortable expressing their opinions and giving constructive feedback[3].
Flexible working models
I implement flexible working hours to facilitate collaboration across different time zones[1].
Technological support
I use digital tools such as translation software and virtual whiteboards to overcome language barriers and promote visual collaboration[1][2].
Cultural calendar
I provide an internal calendar that lists important holidays and cultural events from different countries to promote mutual understanding[1].
Regular check-ins
I hold regular short meetings to ensure that all team members are on the same page and feel heard[1].
These methods help to establish inclusive and effective collaboration between IT teams from different corporate cultures.
Sources
- https://www.suissecapricorn.com/post/kulturelle-vielfalt-in-it-teams
- https://haiilo.com/de/blog/interkulturelle-kommunikation/
- https://www.lepaya.com/de/blog/leadership-and-communication-in-global-cross-cultural-teams
- https://melanieberger.eu/globale-teams-lokale-konflikte-kulturelle-differenzen-loesen/
- https://digitales-institut.de/erfolgreiche-interkulturelle-zusammenarbeit-tipps-und-best-practices/
- Image: ChatGPT
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Dr. Claus Michael Sattler
