Understanding the Cultural Orientations Approach: An Overview of the Development and Updates to the COA

Originally conceived as a synthesis of key cultural variables that have been recognized by thought leaders in the field of cross-cultural management and communication, the Cultural Orientations Model (COM) has anchored the translation of theory into practice for over 20 years. Along with the Cultural Orientations Indicator® (COI) and the Cultural Navigator®, the synthesis has evolved and become foundational to a comprehensive methodology: the Cultural Orientations Approach (COA). This article describes the development of this approach and explains the nature of its various components, specifically the definition of culture, the four key cultural skills, the COM, the COI, and the Cultural Navigator®. The article also explains the rationale behind the updates to the COM and COI, including the significant change from ten to three dimensions of culture.