Building a Bridge to Europe

Early in April 2001, delegates from the European societies for technical communication met for the first time in Brussels, following a joint invitation by tekom - the German society -- and ISTC - the UK institute. Among the represented societies were CRT (France), FTI (Sweden), ISTC (United Kingdom), STD (Finland), STIC (Netherlands), TECOM (Switzerland) and tekom (Germany and Austria). The most important outcome was the formulation of a joint declaration of intent to found a European-wide 'umbrella' organisation.

Wirtz, Ursula. TC-FORUM (2001). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>Europe

Business Lessons, Italian Style  

Martin shares the intercultural tips and tricks he has learned during his thirteen years of working in Italy, and discusses how they contrast with his business experiences in America.

Martin, Brian. Intercom (2006). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>Italy

Chinese Home Site Visits: Tips and Hints

You may only get one opportunity in a home visit and good planning and preparation is important. Here are some tips and hints from recent home site visits in both China and Taiwan.

Wong, Josephine. Usability Professionals Association (2007). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>China

Confidentiality and Privilege in Mediation: A Dutch Perspective  

It is the author's bold submission, that Dutch case law, as developed by the Netherlands Supreme Court, might be of some general interest, as it is based on general principles, amongst others found in case law by the European Court for Human Rights. As Dutch is not Europe's most accessible language, some observations in English might be stimulating for those who are interested in this matter.

Bosnak, John. Mediate.com (2002). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>Netherlands

One-On-One Japanese Business Etiquette

If you are traveling to Japan on business it is very important to have business cards created, or as they are called in Japan, meishi. Not only are they a useful tool to identify you and your company, but they can also provide additional information for your Japanese counterparts, such as any professional memberships or associations you may be involved in.

WTB Language Group (2005). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>Japan

Challenging and Being Challenged: Westerners' Encounter with the Indian Culture 

Historically India attracted a lot of Western attention due to its different and complex culture, its spiritual philosophy and rich natural resources. Obviously, this attraction had both positive and negative effects. However, during the many centuries of colonization the country tried to safeguard its unique cultures and value systems. Nowadays, India as a country with a booming economy and a relatively stable democratic system looks even more promising to the West. All this explains the growing stream of foreign tourists, business people and researchers.

Groznaya, Elena and Pranjali Bandhu. TC World (2008). Articles>Collaboration>Regional>India