Modern Japanese Organization and Decision-Making

This book explores the major features of modern Japanese organizations that have contributed to Japan's rapid economic development. Contributors include academic business consultants, Japanese government officials, and Western experts. The essays highlight the dynamic and volatile nature of Japanese organizations, where decision-making is not limited to the executive level, and conflicts exist within and between different sectors of society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

This book represents a groundbreaking endeavor to delve into the intricate aspects of modern Japanese organizations, which have played a pivotal role in Japan's remarkable economic growth. A diverse group of contributors, including renowned academic business consultants like Peter Drucker from the United States and Kazuo Noda from Japan, as well as Japanese government officials such as Yoshihisa Ojimi, former Administrative Vice-Minister of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, and Taishiro Shirai, a member of the Central Labor Relations Commission, have contributed their expertise to this comprehensive volume. The essays explore a wide range of topics, including Japanese government and business, the structures of newspapers and universities, and the role of Japanese intellectuals in modern organizations.

What emerges from the pages of this book is a far more dynamic and complex portrayal of Japanese organizations than what is commonly assumed. The contributors showcase how business and government managers creatively employ traditional practices in innovative ways, embarking on bold initiatives to achieve new objectives. This contradicts the notion that decisions are solely made from the bottom up, as executive leaders also play a significant role in initiating action. Furthermore, lower-level officials operate within a framework defined by their superiors, leading to heightened tensions and conflicts within organizations, particularly in institutions like universities, where conflicts can hinder decision-making processes.

It is important to note that the findings presented in this book challenge the stereotypical view of Japan, Inc., highlighting the significant divergence of interests among different sectors of society. While there may be a high level of consensus supporting the fundamental commitment to economic growth, this consensus is gradually weakening, indicating potential shifts in the country's economic landscape.

In conclusion, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and professionals interested in understanding the intricacies of modern Japanese organizations and their role in shaping the country's economic development. The diverse perspectives and insights provided by the contributors shed light on the dynamic and complex nature of these organizations, challenging prevailing notions and providing a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to Japan's success.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520307100