Vive la difference — or are national cultural differences a big distraction?

Uses data from eight different European countries on research about operating performance in the region and problems with the countries themselves. Pinpoints four different European boardroom/management styles — but states these are not bounded by national frontiers: inspirational; elitist; consensual; and directive. Profiles a figure that elaborates the four boardroom styles in greater detail. Concludes the stronger the emphasis on the common ground of the company rather than stereotypical cultural gaps, the better it will be.