Date of Award

1-1-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Pavel Shlossberg

Second Advisor

Dr. David Givens

Abstract

This study explored communication dissonance found within globally distributed software development teams. The literature review investigated the theoretical foundation for the causes of intercultural dissonance that affects globally distributed software development teams. An online survey, and unobtrusive participant observation methods were used to capture as many data points as possible. Qualitative analysis leveraging data triangulation was the basis for the study. Participants in the study exhibited behaviors consistent with anticipated results. Suffering from a lack of understanding of dynamics found when interacting across high/lowcontext cultures, the study participants exhibited varying levels of intercultural communication dissonance. Teams that had been together longer appear to be more interculturally competent and effective. Additional research areas are identified to further understand the impacts of intercultural communication dissonance as well as to make recommendations for overcoming/minimizing this organizational challenge.

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