One of the most provocative articles I've read on the use of mobile phones and how it reflects the cultures in which we live, is a recent one entitled "The Apparatgeist Calls" in The Economist Jan 2-8 issue.
I'm still thinking about its ramifications regarding the way people converse with one another, especially via mobile phones. Let's start with the initial concept that even the name a culture gives to hand-held telephones reflects a viewpoint that can be highly strategic and influential in the way the device is used – and viewed – by a population. In America, we talk of "cell" phones, referring to the modern wireless network on which our phone calls are carried. In other countries, people refer to their "mobile" which refers to the fact that the phone is not restricted to a particular place or location. In Germany, people refer to their "handy." which highlights the fact that it fits in the hand.
Why do we care? Because these names may be more than cosmetic; they may in fact reflect a perspective that can in turn influence future use of phones and the value people place on their utility.
In some countries, for example, the move away from spoken conversations on the phone to text messaging is dramatic. In Japan, this no doubt reflects particular aspects of the Japanese culture, among them the fact that people find it highly offensive to hear others taking calls in a public place, but have no problem with seeing others texting. The Japanese teenager, living in a crowded country in which there is little opportunity for privacy, were quick to catch on to the benefits of texting over verbal conversation (especially those that could be heard or monitored by others, including family members). In Japan texting has grown far faster than in other parts of the world.
How about in the US? Who is doing most of the texting and what do they see as its benefit? How about you?
We'll talk tomorrow about other aspects of the cultural mobile, er cell...(or is it handy?) conversation.
Author of I is for Intercourse: The ABC's of Conversation, Susan Bird is the visionary behind Wf360, and a sought-after speaker around the world for her views on leadership, the strategic importance of conversation, entrepreneurship, and the role of women business leaders.
Our cultures should stand for some timeless things - excellent customer service or empowering employees - but should be willing and able to change the parts of the culture that are not core to the differentiators of the business.
Culture can be both an inhibitor to growth and an enabler to growth. Only when culture changes and grows as the business evolves does it really reinforce your business.
Posted by: viagra online | October 11, 2010 at 12:20 PM
Usage of mobile phones has been so essential for most of the people. Everyday in every way of their life mobile phones are always present. The usage of mobile really depend on cultures gained. If you grew up on a family which is oriented on business you seemed to have the idea that you have the same kind of unit with your parents as well. Technology influences many as well as digs any cultural backgrounds.
Posted by: International call rates | February 03, 2011 at 04:54 AM