The Art of Japanese Management: Key Concepts

1. The 7-S Framework

Element	Description
Strategy	Plan for sustainable competitive advantage
Structure	Organizational hierarchy and reporting lines
Systems	Daily procedures and activities
Staff	Employees and their capabilities
Style	Leadership and operational approach
Skills	Competencies of employees
Shared Values	Core values and corporate culture

2. Japanese vs American Management Practices

3. Key Japanese Management Practices

• Long-term employment (lifetime employment)
• Consensus decision-making (Ringi system)
• Collective responsibility
• Holistic concern for employees
• Subtle control mechanisms
• Nonspecialized career paths
• Implicit communication

4. Lessons for Western Managers

1. Balance hard and soft elements of management
2. Adopt a longer-term perspective
3. Take a holistic approach to organizational management
4. Explore ways to build consensus in decision-making
5. Invest in broad employee development
6. Recognize the importance of organizational culture