Poking and prodding Japanese managers into better performance

Article Abstract:

Kanrisha Yosei Gakko is a management school in Japan that uses what it calls 13 days of 'hell training' in which instructors intimidate would-be managers into what is referred to as abject compliance. Among the tactics used are loud chanting and singing, prodding with wooden sticks called shinai to improve posture, the implied threat of violence (although no violence is used), long night-time marches using ambiguous maps, and repetitious bowing and punishment exercises. While the techniques may appear to have little to do with modern management training and, at least to Western eyes, seem demeaning and humiliating, the waiting-list of 'students' continues to grow. The goals of the program to tear down the trainees physically and mentally and recreate them in the school's perverse image are described.

Case studies, Japan, Training, Employee training, Management training

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Looking past the fads: how to get back to basics

Article Abstract:

Value analysis-value engineering (VA-VE) is a method of management that is considered by many as out-dated, but it is a technique that can still provide considerable benefits to manufacturing organizations. At the foundation of VA-VE is an attempt to identify and eliminate all unnecessary costs without effecting quality, performance or reliability through the generation of new ideas and new problem-solving methodologies by managers. The five interrelated aspects of a successful VA-VE strategy are the involvement of top management; the proper methodology; careful organization; participant training; and discipline throughout the process. Each of the aspects is described, and the process of implementing a VA-VE program is examined.

Methods, Business planning, Production management, Industrial management, Value analysis (Cost control), Cost control

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