Implementation of Japanese business management methods – the case study of a manufacturer of systems and installations for pneumatic, hydraulic, and electro-machinery controls

Abstract

Japanese methods, concepts, and management tools enjoy rising popular in the world and in Poland, which is the consequence of the assumptions and practical results achieved thanks to the solutions applied by business entities and organizations. The aim of this study is a comprehensive assessment of conditions and internal determinants of competitiveness, enabling effective implementation of Japanese methods and techniques of production management, in the enterprise under consideration. The hypothesis to verify is the statement that the implementation of Japanese management methods in the examined enterprise increased the economic efficiency of individual production processes and improved its organizational culture. The triangulation method in the form of direct observation analysis of information taken from primary and secondary sources was applied. Also, there was conducted a questionnaire survey, completed with an individual in-depth interview with the company employees (leaders and coordinators) in the field of Japanese production management methods. The possibilities of using Japanese management methods in enterprises are huge. The effectiveness of the implementation of Japanese management methods, concepts, and tools in the studied organization is manifested, among others, in such results as improvement of employees’ working conditions, organized production, increased safety on the premises, organizational culture focused on respect for others, the possibility of personal development, increased efficiency of individual production processes, and reduced waste. Achieving the best production and economic results is possible thanks to experienced and knowledgeable employee teams. Japanese concepts are very strongly oriented towards cooperation between management and employees. Unfortunately, not every employee has a chance to develop, as it is limited to selected senior units. Employees’ knowledge of management methods, concepts, and tools is assessed as low by leaders and coordinators. The lack of participation in training and the lack of knowledge of some employees is the main reason for this claim. In the opinion of managers, young people are more open to change, see knowledge as an essential element in life, strive to learn and get the most out of work. The production plant under investigation should train employees in the methodology they apply. The training should be more practical, thought-provoking, voluntary, and offered with a specific frequency and with certain stages of difficulty. Instead of defining Japanese management methods, concepts, and tools, their effects and their practical meaning should be shown.