The use of a manufacturing strategy tool and the role of national culture

This paper presents findings from an empirical study of the use of a manufacturing strategy tool in seven companies in Sweden and Singapore. We investigated the influence of national culture when using a manufacturing strategy tool. Hofstede’s national cultural dimensions and underlying factors model were applied. The findings show that it is possible to explain differences in the use of manufacturing strategy tools when considering national cultural dimensions. It was found that the factors of power distance, long-term orientation, and masculinity influence participation and decision-making when using a manufacturing strategy tool