Analysis on Intercultural Differences through User Experiences of Mobile Phone for globalization

Abstract

The aims of this paper are 1) to give an overview of major concepts and theories which are useful to interpret cultural variances; 2) to determine the distinctive cultural inclinations of each country in user experiences related to mobile phones; 3) to map cultural models to mobile phone user interface design for applying to design practice. This cross-cultural comparative study also provides comparisons of major works of Hall, Hofstede, Trompenaars, Jordan, Aaron, and Umpleby. Cultural theoretical concepts evaluate the user experience pattern of mobile phones. In order to conduct and develop a specific research framework for cultural interface design, an online survey was conducted in Korea, China and Japan. The responses interpret Hofstedes cultural dimensions for UI design of mobile phones to help understand the Asian mobile phone market. Preferences of products are becoming more similar and glocalization enhances the cultural identity. If interfaces are to be usable, useful, and appealing to global users, developers must account for cultural aspects in glocalizing their products.