This book gives you an in-depth look at the most famous Japanese management practices and how these are used in Japanese corporations. It examines all aspects of Japanese management and explains the most famous Japanese business concepts, such as kaizen, kanban, just-in-time, and lifetime employment. It covers all aspects of modern Japanese management and helps international managers understand these successful management practices.

(written in collaboration with Motoko MJ Huysveld) Cross-cultural misunderstandings frequently appear in situations where Westerners interact with people from the Far East, in particular with the Japanese. As a Japan Business Consultant, I have witnessed many business cases, situations or events, where understanding the basics of Japanese business etiquette and Japan cross-cultural management would have helped a lot. This book, filled with concrete advice and illustrations of what to do and what not to do, aims at giving foreign business executives the necessary background and "toolkit" for succeeding in their "Japan cross-cultural adventure". The reader equipped with all the tools and tips I have developed in this book should definitely "perform better" when confronted with a Japanese prospect, potential business partner or "boss". Being well prepared for future Japan-related business opportunities is of the most importance now that an EPA in principle has been concluded between the EU and Japan!

‘Omoiyari is a form of selfless compassion – putting yourself in the shoes of others, and from their perspective anticipating their needs, acting in a way that might make them at ease, happy or comfortable.’

Dive deeper into the heart of Japanese philosophy with this comprehensive guide to living a more balanced, intentional life. Explore the nuances of Ikigai, your reason for being, and discover how it intertwines with concepts like Wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection, and Mono no Aware, the gentle sadness of transience. Uncover the power of Kaizen, the art of continuous improvement, and see how it can transform your personal and professional life. Delve into the mindfulness practices of Zen and the focused dedication of Shojin, finding joy in concentrated effort. This book goes beyond mere explanations, offering practical exercises, real-world case studies, and a 30-day action plan to integrate these profound concepts into your daily routine. Whether you're facing challenges at work, seeking personal growth, or simply yearning for a more meaningful existence, the timeless wisdom of Japan provides a roadmap to a more fulfilled life. From the art of Kintsugi, repairing broken pottery with gold, learn to embrace your flaws and turn adversity into beauty. Explore the concept of Ma, the space between, and discover how to find peace in the pauses of life. With insights on Japanese aesthetics, mindfulness practices, and philosophical concepts, this book offers a holistic approach to living that resonates with the challenges of our modern world. It's not just about understanding these ideas - it's about embodying them, letting them reshape your perspective and guide your actions. Embark on this transformative exploration of Japanese wisdom. Your path to a more intentional, balanced, and deeply satisfying life starts here. Are you ready to unlock the secrets that have guided generations towards harmony, purpose, and inner peace?

'Marketing in Japan' is ideal for executives wanting a 'hands-on' guide to entering the Japanese market. If you are already operating any kind of business venture either in Japan or with Japan, or if you hope to do so in the future, this book is for you. It provides business people with all the necessary information about business, including marketing and distribution in Japan. Few Westerners have as thorough and distinguished a background in different areas of Japanese trade as Ian Melville; in addition to several years of exporting to Japan, he teaches Japanese business at Tokyo's Sophia University completing a PhD in the subject at Tokyo University. Marketing in Japan is an important book that will ensure that readers become well equipped to deal with increasing their business in Japan.

This case book on Japanese companies and multinational corporations in Japan presents 12 entirely new cases studies for academics and business professionals alike. The cases in the book deal with market entry, corporate growth and crisis management of Japanese firms or international firms in Japan. It presents new developments, such as technological changes (electronic payment and gaming) in the Japanese business environment and provides an overview on the diversity of business activities in the Japanese economy. Written in a simple and an accessible manner, this book can be used as a textbook for students of International, Asian or Japanese management or by international managers and business professionals to make business decisions.

This book explores how the business transformation taking place in Japan is influenced by the digital revolution. The chapters present approaches and examples from sectors commonly understood to be visible arenas of digital transformation—3D printing and mobility, for instance—as well as some from not-so-obvious sectors, such as retail, services, and fintech. Business today is facing unprecedented change especially due to the adoption of new, digital technologies, with a noticeable transformation of manufacturing and services. The changes have been brought by advanced robotics, the emergence of artificial intelligence, and digital networks that are growing in size and capability as the number of connected devices explodes. In addition, there are advanced manufacturing and collaborative connected platforms, including machine-to-machine communications. Adoption of digital technology has caused process disruptions in both the manufacturing and services sectors and led to new business models and new products. While examining the preparedness of the Japanese economy to embrace these changes, the book explores the impact of digitally influenced changes on some selected sectors from a Japanese perspective. It paints a big picture in explaining how a previously manufacturing-centric, successful economy adopts change to retain and rebuild success in the global environment. Japan as a whole is embracing, yet also avoiding—innovating but also restricting—various forms of digitalization of life and work. The book, with its 12 chapters, is a collaborative effort of individuals contributing diverse points of view as technologists, academics, and managers.