Book excerpt: This is an invaluable, applied "how to" guide to understanding the unique characteristics of the international business environment that provides critical information to all managers considering entering an overseas market. The global marketplace is a reality, yet there are virtually no books dedicated to understanding the international business environment. The accessible, practitioner-oriented information in this book provides businesspeople with the tools necessary to accurately analyze the complex global environment and the perspective to be successful in international markets. A resource for business managers as well as for college-level business students, the book covers all major areas of the international business environment, including the cultural aspects of international commerce environments as well as economic, political, and competitive challenges. Additionally, the author explains how a business entity can impact the market environment in which it operates.