"With numerous books on the market describing the wondrous lessons to be learned from the successful Japanese management system, why another volume?" "The Japanese Management Mystique by Jon Woronoff brings to light something all the others have overlooked - the weaknesses and failings of the Japanese management system. As in all cases, taking into account one side of a story and ignoring another produces a warped sense of reality; it is hardly a contribution to improved perception of increased comprehension. By understanding good and bad points, strengths and weaknesses, achievements and failures, companies wishing to enter the Japanese market, on their own or as part of joint ventures, are better positioned to succeed in their undertakings." "Everyone is familiar with the achievements of Japanese blue collar workers and factories, but there is a larger picture to view. The Japanese Management Mystique uncovers the lesser known truths of white collar workers. This comprehensive book examines a number of issues that come into play as part of the Japanese management system, including modern factories, yet backward offices, workers' changing thoughts toward lifetime employment, indifferent human relations, and bloated bureaucracies." "Jon Woronoff drives home three main points. First, the Japanese management system has strengths, but it also has weaknesses. Both need to be examined, studied and understood to produce and maintain a realistic picture of the system as a whole." "Secondly, if the United States and other countries are to go head-to-head with the Japanese, it is most important for companies in these markets to capitalize on their own strengths and seek out the Japanese weaknesses in order to take advantage of them. At the same time, companies entering into joint ventures with the Japanese also should be aware of the system's weaknesses to prevent them from destroying the business relationship." "And finally, no management system is perfect. When considering the mythical excellence of the Japanese system, it is critical to look at it with an analytical eye, borrowing what is "good" and translating the "bad" into marketing advantages for your company."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved