Improving organizational effectiveness

Abstract

This chapter aims to evaluate carefully some of the more likely sources of the proven effectiveness of the Japanese kaisha. It emphasizes the impressive overall concern for their employees. Rather arbitrarily, six additional sources are discussed: the emphasis placed upon technology and production; forward-looking product diversification; effective use of suggestion systems; belief in the concept of total quality control (TQC); commitment to robotization; and a unique union-management relationship. The first source of the organizational effectiveness of Japanese firms is the priority given to technology and production. Encouraging ideas from employees through a suggestion system has a long history in the United States. Basic to an understanding of TQC in Japan is an appreciation of the fact that quality control has shifted from being a strictly engineering function, performed by specialists with little actual line experience, to being the responsibility of each and every employee.

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