Values and managerial practices in a traditional society
International Journal of Commerce and Management
ISSN: 1056-9219
Article publication date: 1 June 2015
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to examine how national cultural values influence and impact management practices and styles in the Sultanate of Oman. Administrative and managerial performance, especially in developing countries, is thought to be shaped to a large degree by traditional social values, which prevent managers from effectively implementing sound management processes.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses empirical research to explore and determine the link between Oman’s cultural values and managers’ managerial practices and styles. The aim is to examine the correlations between the influence of cultural values on managerial practices and styles using Schwartz’s (1992) Value Survey, the Portrait Value Questionnaire and Managerial Style and Practice.
Findings
It was found that in Oman, cultural values affect the efficiency of managerial performance and lead to a limited interest in management theory and sound managerial practices.
Research limitations/implications
This study was limited to managerial practices in Oman. Further study could include other developing countries in the Arabian Gulf States.
Originality/value
While management performance in developing countries has received wide attention during the past three decades, few studies have researched the area of management and managerial practices and styles in Omani organizations.
Keywords
Citation
Al-Kindi, I.A. and Bailie, H.T. (2015), "Values and managerial practices in a traditional society", International Journal of Commerce and Management, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 138-156. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCoMA-09-2013-0086
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited