Case Study

The Hidden Cost of Diversity: Why Global Teams Struggle & How to Fix It

What if I tell you that your diverse, talented team might actually be holding itself back?

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Our Findings

What we found In initial conversations and/or Appreciative Inquiry

Varying communication norms due to individual as well as cultural differences, were leading to misunderstandings and trust-erosion within the team.
Largely influenced by culture, some of the key stakeholders in the team had vastly different approach to risk. At one end of this spectrum where personalities dirven by Uncertainty Avoidance. At the helm, we had a leader who embraced ambiguity and rapid change. This led to conflict and significant stress within the team.

The Solution

The actions we took to address the identified underlying causes

Using Extended DISC (E-DISC), we helped the client team recognize differences in communication, decision-making styles and approach to risk for each member in the team.

A subsequent structured team-building workshop, designed using an isomorphic frame, broke down communication barriers, enhanced collaboration, and accelerated decision-making.

The Challenge

The issues with which the clients approached us

After restructuring, our diverse client team - spread across different locations – struggled to move projects from ideation to implementation. Collaboration and communication barriers slowed progress, leading to frustration to the point where even key talent was on the verge of leaving.

The Opportunity

The issues we can address for you using similar interventions

Research shows that while diverse, geographically spread teams bring fresh perspectives, they also face unique challenges. Studies by Hinds & Mortensen (2005) and Brett, Behfar, & Kern (2006) reveal that cultural differences, communication gaps, and varying decision-making styles often lead to misalignment, slow execution, and even disengagement.

Without the right strategies, a global team can become stuck in endless discussions instead of delivering results.

If you’re facing slow decision-making, cultural misalignment, or disengagement, we can help. Let’s discuss how we can tailor this solution for your organization.

Issue(s) with which the client approached us
After restructuring, our diverse client team - spread across different locations – struggled to move projects from ideation to implementation. Collaboration and communication barriers slowed progress, leading to frustration to the point where even key talent was on the verge of leaving.
What we found In initial conversations and/or Appreciative Inquiry

Varying communication norms due to individual as well as cultural differences, were leading to misunderstandings and trust-erosion within the team.

Largely influenced by culture, some of the key stakeholders in the team had vastly different approach to risk. At one end of this spectrum where personalities dirven by Uncertainty Avoidance. At the helm, we had a leader who embraced ambiguity and rapid change. This led to conflict and significant stress within the team.
The actions we took to address the identified underlying causes
Using Extended DISC (E-DISC), we helped the client team recognize differences in communication, decision-making styles and approach to risk for each member in the team.

A subsequent structured team-building workshop, designed using an isomorphic frame, broke down communication barriers, enhanced collaboration, and accelerated decision-making.
The outcomes that we delivered based on our intervention
A more agile, engaged team that moved from ideation to execution faster - giving the company a competitive edge. However, the best part was that the team leader was able to retain key talent by understanding what truly motivated them.
The issues we can address for you using similar interventions
Research shows that while diverse, geographically spread teams bring fresh perspectives, they also face unique challenges. Studies by Hinds & Mortensen (2005) and Brett, Behfar, & Kern (2006) reveal that cultural differences, communication gaps, and varying decision-making styles often lead to misalignment, slow execution, and even disengagement.

Without the right strategies, a global team can become stuck in endless discussions instead of delivering results.

If you’re facing slow decision-making, cultural misalignment, or disengagement, we can help. Let’s discuss how we can tailor this solution for your organization.

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