Particularities of Japanese Management

Abstract

This article discusses the Japanese Model of Management from a comparative and critical perspective, based on a literature review. The author addresses this topic due to its importance for modern-day management practice in general. It is clear, based on the reading, that Japanese management is a prime example of an efficient management system, and it continues to be recognized worldwide as an efficient model; interest in how it works, and can be applied to other countries, is increasing. The aim of this article, therefore, is to demonstrate the efficiency of the Japanese model and make recommendations concerning the application of some of the most useful “ingredients” of the Japanese “recipe” in other countries. A wide array of literature, such as articles, research studies and reports about Japanese management, has been analyzed. Based on this analysis, some recommendations are made to business managers. This analysis has also determined that the modern economy and its globalization have influenced traditional Japanese management practices, and the transformation they are producing is still being observed. However certain core elements of traditional Japanese practice (such as lifetime employment) prevail in spite of such changes. The content of this article is useful for business people wishing to apply successful Japanese practice, those conducting their own research into Japanese management or the general reader who seeks to know more about Japanese management and its cultural aspects.