Cleaning and Corporate Management: The Historical and Theoretical Relationship Between Japanese Companies and Their Cleaning Activities

This book provides a new perspective on Japanese management by examining the relationship between Japanese companies and their social practices, particularly focusing on the long-standing practice of cleaning. It explores how cleaning activities have been historically formed in Japanese companies and their significance in maintaining their growth and competitiveness. The book also discusses the theoretical relationship between cleaning and management, using quantitative and qualitative data from Japanese companies. It highlights the unique problem-solving and strategy-creation processes of Japanese companies in contrast to European and American companies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 110 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book offers a fresh perspective on Japanese management by delving into the intricate relationship between Japanese companies and their social practices. While previous studies have frequently focused on the distinctive features of Japanese companies' systems, such as lifetime employment, the seniority system, and company-specific unions, or on their methods, such as bottom-up management and Toyota production methods, this book goes beyond these surface-level observations to explore the unique activities and practices of Japanese companies.

One particularly noteworthy aspect of this book is its emphasis on the day-to-day cleaning activities that many companies in Japan have upheld for numerous years, regardless of their size or industry. These activities, known as social practices, extend beyond a specific period and hold significant importance in the culture and operations of Japanese businesses. The book aims to clarify how these social practices have historically emerged and evolved within Japanese companies, and it also sheds light on the significance of preserving these cleaning practices.

The study is divided into two distinct parts: historical research and theoretical research. The historical research provides a historical context by examining the relationship between Japanese companies and cleaning activities from a historical standpoint. Drawing upon old literature and in-house documents, the reader gains insight into how Japanese companies have strategically positioned cleaning practices as a means to enhance their growth potential, competitiveness, and sustainability.

The second part of the book delves into the theoretical aspects of the relationship between cleaning and management. It employs quantitative and qualitative data from contemporary Japanese companies to explore the implications of long-term focus on 5S activities, which encompass Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. Through survey results and case studies, the book demonstrates how these activities can shape the organizational structure, human resources development, and overall performance of companies.

By examining the intersection of social practices, management, and organizational culture, this book offers valuable insights into the distinctive characteristics of Japanese management. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the unique strategies and practices that have contributed to the success of Japanese companies in global markets. Whether you are an executive, business professional, or interested in studying international business, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese management and its cultural roots.

Weight: 371g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819907601
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023