Coming of age
Article Abstract:
Japan hans transcended the image of imitator and mass producer of cheap consumer goods, and has become the preeminent economic power in the world. However, domestic demands for lower priced and more readily available consumer goods, and foreign pressure to open Japanese domestic markets to imports have placed pressure on government and business to change. The traditionally slow Japanese decision-making process, reliance on foreign sources for raw materials, and an inadequate agricultural system are perceived by many Japanese leaders to be impediments. Japanese corporations are striving through international investments to avoid being excluded from foreign markets. The firms also are attempting to respond to domestic demands by slowly opening to competitive imports. Foreign firms which want to enter the Japanese market need to understand the demands and requirements of Japanese consumers to succeed.
Publication Name: International Management
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0020-7888
Year: 1990
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The new information evangelists
Article Abstract:
World competition, rapid technological changes, and resentment against costly or ineffective information technology (IT) are forcing numerous boards of directors to reconsider their IT strategies. The experience of European pulp and paper firm Wiggins Teape Group Ltd is described to highlight the growing use of IT consultants as a strategic business weapon. Wiggins Teape engaged the services of Nolan, Norton & Co, an early IT consultancy, and is now in the second year of a five-year plan to put a new IT strategy into effect. Nolan Norton and its competitor Index Group believe that IT must be removed from the management of those whose orientation is strictly technical and placed under the influence of senior management officials. Corporate inertia and a shortage of skilled consultants are said to be the main barriers faced by IT consultancies.
Publication Name: International Management
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0020-7888
Year: 1988
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