In Japanese business culture, the decision-making process is often conducted in a unique way. Among them, the ringiseido system is a unique and important link in Japanese corporate governance. This method reflects the cultural characteristics of Japanese society that value harmony and teamwork. Different from the top-down decision-making model in the West, the proposal system emphasizes equality and collaboration among managers at all levels, giving every member the opportunity to participate in discussions and put forward opinions.
During the operation of the feedback system, managers are not only the executors of decisions, but also the communicators of ideas, which makes many employees feel that their opinions are valued.
The main operational process of the proposal system is realized through a document called "ringisho". When an employee proposes a new idea or proposal, he or she will create a proposal and send it to colleagues for review. Each reviewer uses a personal seal (hanko) to express their opinion on the proposal based on their own opinions. This process symbolizes a democratic and open decision-making method.
After all colleagues have reviewed it, upper management will make the final decision. This process ensures that the proposal process is filled with an atmosphere of mutual support and consensus.
This kind of decision-making process around the consultation system is often misunderstood by foreign managers as "micromanagement." However, Japanese managers view this process as a tool to coach and support processes, ensuring transparency and consensus in decision-making. This cultural background is not limited to the inside of Japanese companies, but also has an impact on their external partners.
In smaller companies, corporate culture presents different characteristics. New employees are usually mentored by senior experts. This learning method, similar to the German master system, allows employees to acquire in-depth professional skills in specific areas, rather than receiving the shallower and broad training in large enterprises.
This kind of in-depth and specialized training enables small companies to cultivate high-quality staff and maintain a relatively flexible ability to respond to market changes.
With the changes in society, Japan is also experiencing important changes in the role of women in the workplace and management. As Western influence increases and Japan faces the challenge of a declining population, the government is beginning to focus on women's participation in the workplace. To support women's career development, the Japanese government has promoted a series of measures, including improving childcare facilities and providing financial support for young families.
In the past few decades, with the changes in Japan's social structure and the penetration of Western culture, the implementation of the proposal system has not only made the decision-making process within the enterprise more democratic, but also provided Japanese enterprises with the ability to face global market challenges. Helped. This decision-making system is not only formal cooperation, but also the embodiment of deep-seated cultural concepts.
Like the proposal system rooted in cultural traditions, how will Japanese companies in the future face the tension between these cultural traditions and the wave of globalization?