This discussion is based on Case Study 10-2 from the O\'Rourke text. After readi

Question

This discussion is based on Case Study 10-2 from the O'Rourke text. After reading the chapter and the case, do some web-based research about the differences between Japanese and American business culture, and use that information to formulate your post.

Assume that the Japanese transition team consists of a combination of managers and software engineers. Put yourself in Todd Batey's place, and talk about what your goals for the immersion experience for the Japanese team would be. What would be the most important things for them to learn as a result of the process? How would you go about introducing them to U.S. business culture?

Explanation / Answer

Based on Hofstede’s Cultural dimensions, the Japanese national culture is characterized by moderate power-distance, moderate individualism, very high masculinity, very high uncertainty avoidance and a high long-term orientation. US culture is low on power distance, uncertainty avoidance and long term orientation and quite high in individualism, masculinity and indulgence quotient.

The interpretation of contract law in both the countries is based on the way they perceive their culture and value system. For example in USA, the contract terms are quite generic and the gist of the contract is included while the Japanese people try to be quite specific with each clause in the contract. This is because Japanese try to avoid risk while Americans do not have problem in administering risks.

Hierarchy and decision-making processes: Japanese business culture is characterized by distinct hierarchies. Japanese are firm believers of the notion that one should portray his actions based on the status and power one has. One should never go beyond the scope of his power and status. The hierarchy is based on the consensus and cooperation of team as a whole. Decision making process is a top-down process where the major responsibility of decision-making is on the top management. The decision flows from layer to layer, requiring affirmation from each layer and hence, decision making is a cumbersome and time-consuming process in Japan.

Types of conflicts that may be encountered: Japanese try to keep their personal feelings aside and try to have composure at work. Japanese never tend to show their emotions at a public place or work. If they are angry or in times of a conflict, they will humbly fall silent. Conflicts within groups are resolved through hierarchy. The Japanese are very loyal to their group. An enemy of the group becomes their own enemy.

Preferred managerial qualities: Japanese work in a collaborative work environment. A Japanese manager often wants to discuss the performance of his subordinates. He likes to give frequent feedbacks. Decision is taken by a consensus and hence, is a long time-consuming process.

Privileges and/or favoritism as it relate to sex, religion, class, or status: Japanese rarely show favoritism at work based on person preference as the Japanese like to keep their personal life and personal preferences aside. Workplace is thoroughly professional. Favoritism and giving preferences is considered unfair and unjust.

Ethnicity and gender issues: Japan is a highly masculine society. So the power is mostly in the hands of Japanese males. Gender equality is a problem area in Japan as the women there have to strive beneath the glass ceiling. In Japan, most of the people are Japanese. People from other ethnicity are usually the labor class who had migrated to Japan for work.

Customs that may have an impact on the organization’s way of doing business: Japanese are very traditional people. They are high risk avoiders so do not like any change. The age-long customs and traditions are highly valued and no reforms have been attempted on the same.

Business etiquettes in Japan:

Based on Hofstede Cultural dimensions, given below is the analysis of cultural dimensions of USA:

Exploring the above cultural dimensions, we can see that USA thrives on competition and is a risk taker. The nation strives hard on improving its current economy and business scenario. So we can conclude that the culture of USA is an enabler and facilitator for improvements.

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