6 Principles that GUARANTEE to build SUCCESSFUL & SUSTAINABLE INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION

Internationalization refers to the process of designing and developing products, services, or systems that can be easily adapted to different cultures, languages, and regions around the world. For example, think about Volvo, IKEA, and H&M can be found in most if not all countries worldwide similar to McDonald's or Pizza Hut. For these products to become successful internationally involves considering cultural and linguistic differences from the outset of the design process, rather than trying to adapt a product or service for a global market after it has been developed. Each of the mentioned products has been able to fit into any culture. 

Internationalization is thus central because it allows businesses, organizations, and individuals to reach a wider audience and tap into global markets. It can also help to ensure that products and services are accessible and usable for people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. 

The concept of Globalisation and its relationship to Internationalization needs to be briefly explained.

Globalization and internationalization are related concepts that often overlap, but they are not the same. 

Globalization refers to the process by which the world is becoming more interconnected and interdependent, with the exchange of goods, services, information technology, and ideas increasing across national borders. It is driven by advances in transportation, communication, and technology, and has led to the emergence of a global economy and the growth of multinational corporations. The growth of the knowledge economy relates to Universities establishing satellite campuses outside of their countries. Benefitting both themselves but also the cities and countries where they are established.  

An essential feature of internationalization in higher education is to foster an international spirit of goodwill to promote respect, and tolerance to ensure a peaceful, just, and sustainable world.  Unfortunately, the current war in Ukraine and the growth and threat of nationalistic and protectionist forces across the world are threats to peace and democracy. Their aim is to discontinue and divide rather than support relationship-building among human beings, cultures, institutions, and systems. It is this that makes the role of internationalization and international research collaboration so much more urgent. 

Collaboration is the act of working with others to achieve a common goal or objective. It involves communication, cooperation, and coordination between team members, and can be an effective way to solve problems, complete tasks, and achieve success. Collaboration can take many forms, including in-person teamwork, virtual team projects, and partnerships between organizations. It can be challenging to collaborate effectively, especially when working with people from different cultures, backgrounds, or locations. However, with the right strategies and approaches, collaboration can lead to greater creativity, productivity, and success.

There are several key principles to follow when collaborating with people from different cultures:

1. Respect cultural differences: It is important to recognize and respect the cultural differences that exist between you and your colleagues. This includes things like communication styles, social norms, and customs.
2. Be open-minded: It can be easy to make assumptions about people from different cultures, but it is important to be open-minded and not make judgments based on stereotypes. Instead, try to learn about and understand their perspectives.
3. Communicate clearly: Clear and effective communication is essential for successful collaboration. Make sure to use language that is simple and easy to understand, and be sure to listen actively to what others have to say.
4. Be patient: Cultural differences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or miscommunications. It is important to be patient and take the time to address any issues that may arise.
5. Seek to understand: When working with people from different cultures, it is important to be curious and seek to understand their perspectives and experiences. This can help to build trust and facilitate collaboration.
6. Be flexible: Collaborating across cultures often requires a degree of flexibility. Be prepared to adapt to different ways of doing things and be open to trying new approaches.