What factors have influenced the process of globalisation?

This question, depending on the amount of marks allocated, can be split into several paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a key factor that influences the globalisation process. The introduction should always focus on defining the key terms, in this case ‘globalisation’. The first, and arguably most important, factor is improvements in transportation. This point can be developed, with the explanation that cheaper and large forms of transport such as large cargo ships can increase shipping between countries at a smaller cost. This links with the economic theory ‘economies of scale’, which explains that as production increases, this lowers the cost per item.

Additional points for paragraphs that can similarly be expanded include improvements in communication, such as the invention of mobile phones and internet sites such as Skype, as this allows companies to set up offices all around the world. This then leads on to the next key factor in influencing the process of globalisation, which is worldwide organisations like the WTO, which increases trade between countries.