Lane Kelley

The role of the ideal organization in comparative management: A cross cultural perspective of Japan & Korea

It is popular to talk of the “Confucian Work Ethic” when explaining the successes of Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. This is not an accurate impression. The authors of this article found significant differences in management practices — both actual and ideal — between Japan and South Korea.

ADAPTABILITY AND CHANGE IN JAPANESE MANAGEMENT PRACTICE: A LONGITUDINAL INQUIRY INTO THE BANKING INDUSTRY – THROUGH THE BUBBLE ECONOMY AND BEYOND

Japanese organizations have been forced to re-evaluate their management systems in light of recent economic and competitive pressures. Much can be learned about the adjustments of the Japanese management mindset, and a more competitive Japan may emerge as a result of successful adaptation. This study makes a longitudinal examination of the dynamic nature of management practices and thinking in the Japanese banking industry. Pressures on key industries in Japan during this time, e.g. the financial sector, provide insight into how adaptable Japanese institutions might be. The study finds important areas of meaningful change, supporting a crossvergence approach.