Unit 1: Information Technology Has Enabled Outreach And More

Unit 1db1information Technology Has Allowed Outreach And Made Knowledg

Find a story in a global journal/newspaper about a US-based company that had a business issue in a foreign market. Describe the situation in your own words and cite and reference the news item and site. Itemize some of the ramifications, both positive and negative, of the proliferation of information available globally, considering technological disparities among countries.

Paper For Above instruction

In today's interconnected world, technology has dramatically expanded the reach of businesses across borders, enabling companies to access and disseminate information instantaneously. One notable case exemplifying the impact of technology on international business is the incident involving Uber in Japan, reported by The Japan Times in 2019. Uber, an American ride-sharing company, faced significant regulatory and cultural challenges when attempting to expand into the Japanese market, where strict licensing laws and a societal preference for traditional taxi services posed barriers (The Japan Times, 2019). The company's initial crackdown by Japanese authorities and societal resistance reflected both negative ramifications—such as legal battles, brand reputation issues, and limited market penetration—and positive outcomes, including heightened awareness of regulatory compliance and cultural sensitivity.

The proliferation of global information accessibility has profound implications for businesses. On the positive side, instant access to market data, consumer feedback, and competitor activity helps firms adapt quickly and make informed decisions. Technology-enabled transparency fosters accountability and can enhance corporate reputation through prompt crisis management and communication. Conversely, the downside includes information overload, which may lead to misinformation, increased vulnerability to cyber threats, and challenges in navigating disparate technological infrastructures. For instance, while the U.S. benefits from advanced digital infrastructure facilitating rapid communication and data sharing, many developing countries lack such facilities, creating a digital divide that hampers uniform access to crucial information.

The Uber case illustrates how technological disparities influence the dissemination and impact of business information. In the U.S., Uber's operations and crisis responses are swift, supported by robust digital infrastructure and legal frameworks that facilitate rapid information exchange. In contrast, in Japan, limited digital integration within traditional regulatory channels delayed and complicated Uber's adaptation efforts. Furthermore, cultural differences influence how information is perceived and acted upon. While in the U.S., consumers may readily embrace innovative services communicated through social media, Japanese consumers tend to rely on established norms and institutional endorsements, affecting the company's outreach and reputation management strategies.

Overall, the vast accessibility of information through the internet has empowered businesses to operate more globally, yet it also necessitates careful navigation of technological shortcomings and cultural nuances. Companies that effectively leverage technological tools while respecting local customs and regulations can enhance their international success. However, failure to adapt to local technological landscapes can result in legal issues, loss of market share, and damaged relationships with stakeholders. Therefore, understanding the technological heterogeneity among countries remains essential for global business strategies.

References

  • The Japan Times. (2019). Uber faces tough regulatory environment in Japan. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/07/20/business/ Uber-faces-tough-regulatory-environment-in-Japan
  • Brennen, S. (2020). The impact of digital technology on business. Journal of International Business Studies, 51(2), 205–222.
  • Castells, M. (2010). The rise of the network society. Wiley-Blackwell.
  • OECD. (2019). Digital economy outlook 2019. Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.
  • Schwab, K. (2016). The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Crown Business.
  • World Bank. (2022). Global digital adoption index. https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/IT.NET.USER.ZS
  • Smith, J. (2018). Cross-cultural communication and technology in international markets. International Journal of Business Communication, 55(4), 467–488.
  • United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. (2021). World Investment Report 2021. UNCTAD.
  • Shapiro, C., & Varian, H. R. (1999). Information Rules: A Strategic Guide to the Network Economy. Harvard Business Review Press.
  • Friedman, T. L. (2005). The World is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

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