The seven dimensions of culture
Intercultural Awareness Profiler (IAP)
Understand yourself and your international partners with this simple online diagnostic tool.
Culture Compass Online (CCOL)
Boost your learning with this web-based learning platform developed by Trompenaars Hampden-Turner.
Understanding the seven dimensions of culture
Universalism
- Do rules define relationships?
Individualism
- Is the well-being of the individual more important than the well-being of the group?
Specific
- Do functions define relationships with others?
Neutral
- Do we hide our true feelings from others?
Achievement
- Does what you do define who you are?
Sequential
- Do you use time to organize your tasks?
Internal control
- Do you change your environment to meet your needs?
Particularism
- Do relationships define rules?
Communitarianism
- Is the well-being of the group more important than the well-being of the individual?
Diffuse
- Do relationships with others define functions?
Affective
- Do we show our true feelings to others?
Ascription
- Does who you are define what you do?
Sychronic
- Do your tasks organize your time?
External control
- Do you change to adapt to your environment?
Using the seven dimensions of culture to help your business
Improving your intercultural skills strengthens your relationships with your international partners, whether they be customers, colleagues, partners or suppliers. The 7 dimensions offer a starting point in recognizing and respecting differences in the way we each approach life and its dilemmas. To what extent do you give priority to the signed contract or the business relationship? What does an invitation to a BBQ at your suppliers home mean? And why is your long-term strategic partner still reluctant to make decisions without consulting others in their company?
Our training solutions connect this robust and business-oriented cultural theory to your actual workplace dilemmas.





