Cross Cultural Applications

OAI & GAI: Assess Cultural Adaptability for Global Success

Performance Programs is an authorized distributor of two of the most validated cross-cultural assessment tools available — the Overseas Assignment Inventory (OAI) and the Global Assessment Inventory (GAI). Both are used by global organizations to select, develop, and support employees who work across cultures.

Why international assignments fail

Between 25% and 40% of international assignments end early — and the leading cause is not technical incompetence. It's cultural misfit. The employee or their family struggles to adapt to the new environment, and the assignment unravels.

Cultural adaptability is a measurable characteristic, and it can be assessed before an assignment begins. The OAI and GAI give organizations the data they need to select the right candidates, prepare them effectively, and support their success abroad.

Two tools for different global talent needs

The OAI focuses on expatriate assignment readiness; the GAI measures the broader cross-cultural effectiveness needed for multicultural teams and international business roles.

Overseas Assignment Inventory (OAI)

Measures cultural adaptability for employees — and their spouses — going on expatriate assignments. Evaluates personal characteristics and contextual factors that predict assignment success.

Global Assessment Inventory (GAI)

Assesses attributes related to working effectively in multicultural environments. Ideal for international business travelers, global managers, and employees on multicultural teams.

Candidate Assessment Service

PPI combines OAI results with structured behavioral interviews to produce detailed assessment reports for expatriate candidate selection.

Candidate Self-Assessment Express

A self-guided option including online OAI access, a development guide, and a two-hour virtual coaching session with a certified intercultural trainer.

Assignee Development

Integration of OAI data into intercultural training programs for outbound expatriates and accompanying spouses.

OAI Certification Training

A two-day certification workshop that qualifies HR professionals to administer, interpret, and debrief OAI results internally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the OAI and the GAI?

The OAI (Overseas Assignment Inventory) is specifically designed for expatriate selection and development — it assesses both the employee and their spouse for international assignment readiness. The GAI (Global Assessment Inventory) measures broader cross-cultural effectiveness for anyone who works with people from different cultural backgrounds, including global managers, international business travelers, and multicultural team members.

Who publishes the OAI and GAI?

Both the OAI and GAI are published by Sirva Intercultural Group, which has over 60 years of experience in cross-cultural education and talent development. Performance Programs is an authorized distributor and research partner, with involvement in local norming and validation studies.

Do we need certified practitioners to use the OAI?

To conduct internal behavioral interviews and debrief OAI results, practitioners should complete the OAI Certification workshop. PPI also offers a full-service candidate assessment option where our certified consultants handle the assessment, interview, and reporting.

Can the OAI be used for the employee's spouse or partner?

Yes. A key strength of the OAI is that it can be administered to both the employee and their accompanying spouse or partner, since family adjustment is one of the strongest predictors of expatriate assignment success.

Assess your global talent pipeline

Contact us to discuss which cross-cultural assessment approach is right for your organization's international talent needs.