'Harmony' as efficiency - Is 'Just-In-Time' a product of Japanese uniqueness?

Journal/Book: Time Soc. 1999; 8: 6 Bonhill Street, London, England EC2a 4Pu. Sage Publications Ltd. 119-140.

Abstract: The management literature frequently characterizes Japanese industrial organization in terms such as collectivism, group-orientation, harmony and team spirit, and attributes these traits to Japan's cultural and traditional uniqueness. However, the author argues that a careful review of Japan's development reveals that its industrialists owe much to western - and primarily American - industrial techniques. The Just-in-Time system's stress on group work does not emerge from the national character or the Tokugawa heritage; it is industrial necessity, a means of achieving maximum efficiency. This idea is by no means alien to western economic theory. Just-In-Time pursues efficiency in the division of labor independent of cultural circumstances.

Note: Article Ikuko N, 1-21-5 Nakahara, Mitaka, Tokyo 1810005, JAPAN

Keyword(s): cultural factor; Japan; Just-In-Time; western system; DISCIPLINE

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