Since globalization really started to make an impact on business in the 1990s we now find ourselves in a period of unprecedented levels of global integration. Much literature is available discussing the concept of globalization but now it is time for some practical advice on what it actually means for an organization.

This book, and a partner book Globalization: The External Pressures, can be read independently or as a complement to the other. The aim of both books is to present an all-round dissection and a one-stop source of latest thinking on the topic of globalization. The focus is both on issues that arise within the internal workings of an organization and on the pressures that come to bear from outside.

The joint expertise of various members of the Ashridge faculty bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to a topic that, in the authors' view, is still in a transformational phase. Not only do they evaluate the concept of globalization and break it down into various schools of thought, they offer truly practical advice on how to deal with the whole arena of globalization. Once digested, an organization should be armed with the tools to deal with the issues that arise within the organization and those that pressurize it from the outside.

Each chapter includes case examples, practical tips and hints, and the tools both to bring this topic to life and to make the book useful to organizations on a day-to-day basis.