Problem: An American of Czech origin and a franchiser for Chicago Style Pizza, I have decided to expand his business into the Czech Republic. This is a risky decision; when I became a franchiser, I had to overcome a lot of difficulties. I anticipate I will face some of these difficulties again at a new location in Prague, Czech Republic. Although I was born in the United States, I have family and friends in the Czech Republic, speak Czech fluently, and have visited the country of my origin several times. Although I do not feel that I know the people well enough to know what they really want.
Question 1: Are there major differences and incompatibilities between the U.S. and Czech cultures? Will these differences create major business risks for Steve? How might Steve mitigate these risks?
Question 2: Will Hofstede's has four primary dimensions to help evaluate the Czech business environment? What are the likely results of this evaluation?
Question 3: Is individualism or collectivism prevalent in Czech culture? Will this help my entrepreneurial endeavors?
Question 4: What can I do to attract more conservative Czechs who prefer the Czech Republic's gastronomic traditions to the convenience of fast food?
Question 5: How can I turn the cultural challenges into opportunities for this Czech venture?