RESEARCH FOCUS  -  INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT

Language & Understanding

Inevitably, when different nations are involved, there will be differences in language. For major projects, there is a need use a common language, and to tutor key staff in appropriate skills. Consideration should be given to agreeing a common language, early in the project. The common language may not always be the national language of the most prominent customer, partner or supplier.

Even if there is a common, life learnt, language that can be used by the participating nations, there can often be difficulties with accents, or colloquialisms. Research by Migrators, amongst others, has identified that the comprehension of different languages is very important. That is ensuring that that the language used conveys the meaning of the message, as well as ensuring that it is fully understood. Difficulties relating to language and understanding can be caused by a number of factors, including:

	Distractions whilst the message is conveyed
	Difficulties with pronunciation and accents
	Reluctance to admit poor comprehension
	Terminology not fully understood
	Use of colloquialisms and unusual words

Research has also shown that comprehension problems are less pronounced if the recipient has adequate time to understand the message. Therefore, important messages are best provided as written, or recorded communications, where possible. This will allow the recipient the opportunity to understand  the message thoroughly, through repeated review of the communication.

When communicating written, or spoken, messages, there can sometimes be difficulties with infrequently used terms or phrases. It is therefore preferable to develop a Glossary containing all the relevant terms used during the international work. The terms and their meanings should be formally agreed by all participants.  Consideration can also be given to translating the Glossary into the native languages of the participants.

If language continues to be a problem, consideration should be given to the provision of translators/interpreters for all the main, or local, languages, at key meetings. Consideration should also be given to translating all key documents into the main, or local, languages of the nations involved. The provision of translation/ interpretation services may significantly increase the time and costs of the work.

Any results from the  international work  that will be made available to the public, or external organisations, should always be translated into the local languages where they will be available. Where possible the translations should be undertaken by a native speaker of the language. This will help to ensure that appropriate use is made of common phrases.

Related areas within this Research Focus topic,  include:

 Training     Communications    Resources

Additional information is also available on this Research Focus topic, these areas include

Assessment     Coordination    Culture   Meetings                                        

Return to the  Introduction  page of this Research Focus topic.