21st century, the age of networks, join LAJACONET, the Latin America-Japan AOTS Consulting Network

Abstract

The Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTS) (www.aots.or.jp) was created in 1959 with the support of the Japanese Ministry of International Trade and Industry as an agency for technical cooperation with developing countries. AOTS has trained more than 93000 people from about 150 countries and regions. Since its creation, AOTS has insisted that what it provides is ''not assistance but cooperation''. This spirit has led to the establishment of AOTS alumni societies, who work closely with AOTS. Today there are over 60 organizations in 40 countries around the world. Among other activities, AOTS trainees conduct training courses and promote AOTS scholarships so that more people receive training in Japan under the AOTS programs. The Latin America Japan AOTS Consulting Network (LAJACONET) was created by a group of AOTS trainees, as a way to contribute to the development of their region. LAJACONET was established as a network of consultants who work together across borders studying the practical implementation of Japanese management and quality control techniques in Latin American countries. This article describes the background that led to the creation of LAJACONET, its activities, basic policy, structure and operation. Also included are case studies from Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, which illustrate the results LAJACONET members have had in implementing and adapting Japanese management techniques in Latin America. More information and case studies can be found at www.lajaconet.com.