German Approach
Deductive thinking is by inference. The conclusion about particulars follows necessarily from general or universal premises. German processes are arrived at more deductively, based on standards and norms. Patterns
American Approach
Inductive thinking is inference. It is a generalized conclusion based on particular instances. American processes and procedures are arrived at more inductively, based on experience. Patterns
American View
German processes are developed in a vacuum, are theoretical, too far removed from everyday business. Deduced from principles (standards and norms) they have a one-size-fits-all character, not taking into account the particulars of our market, of our customers.
German View
Americans don‘t gain sufficient distance from the details of their work to recognize certain patterns. The basis is not there for process optimization, an analysis of what is and is not working. Abstraction is required.
Advice to Germans
Explain your standards and norms, and how you arrived at them, your data and methodology. Most importantly, engage in a dialogue with your American colleagues about when the processes can be adapted to the „situation on the ground.“ Strive to understand the impact of processes on their reality.
Advice to Americans
Don‘t sit just back and criticize German processes. Step into their „process laboratory.“ Gain distance from what you do. Get abstract. Search out the deeper-lying principles governing how you do the work. Engage in the discussion of when to deduce from the principle, when to induce from the particular.