Abstract: Two particularly distinctive features of Japanese management are growth pursuit—not by acquisitions, but by internal investment—and intensive competition within and between Japanese firms. This book examines these two central aspects and also looks at how Japanese firms maintain efficiency and flexibility under the apparently rigid system of ’lifetime’ employment. The author begins by enquiring into the financial and human aspects of the firm with particular emphasis on the human side. The motivation, behaviour, and organization of Japanese management are discussed and the consequences of Japan's management system on its industrial organization and macroeconomy are examined. Throughout the book, it is emphasized that competition is at the heart of the Japanese economy and management to the same, if not to a greater, degree than in the West. This competition is enhanced by the growth preference of Japanese management, and competition in turn makes growth feasible.

Keywords: competition, employment, firm, growth, industry, Japan, macroeconomy, management, motivation, organization