The Nature of Globalization

It would be nice if globalization were a finish line so that we could say to ourselves, “Here finally I have run the race, with considerable effort and sacrifice along the way, but now I can sit back and enjoy the laurels of victory….” No such luck, unfortunately! Globalization defines an organizational structure and mindset that can and does enhance or ensure the continued success of already successful organizations. Globalization also can offer new success in new markets for organizations that once were successful in markets that might now be in decline. But in all cases, a successful globalization effort is a continuous challenge. It needs to be built on an existing, solid base as defined by an organization with a vibrant mission and that is supported by products and services that respond to or that have the potential to respond to actual and evolving global market needs and wants.

The one constant in globalization is that it is a constantly shifting battlefield. Success attracts attention and that attention leads to other organizations moving into your territory to share in your success! The one sure thing in all of this is that there will always be copycats popping up or organizations appearing that profess to have a better solution or better programs and products than what your organization is offering…. As much as this may be hard to admit, all of this competition is good for consumers around the world—but that doesn’t make your life as the provider any easier, does it?

Nevertheless the really scary thing about globalization is that you can’t decide to opt out of it any more than you can decide not to breath! The African story about the antelope and the lion comes to mind. The antelope knows that if it is to survive it must be able to run and run fast. The lion knows that if it is to eat it must be able to run and run fast to catch its meal. So at the dawn of every day, whether you are the antelope or the lion, you know you must be up and running to survive. Of course globalization is like that—whether you decide to play an active or reactive role, you can’t opt out of the game.

(Taken from The Association Guide to Going Global, by Steven M. Worth, John Wiley & Sons, 2010)