Exploring hidden dimensions: catalyst for quality culture

Aivazi is a committee member of the CQI Audit SIG, while Brett previously had roles as Japan Quality SME and Audit Manager for GSK and is currently Vice-Chair of the Audit SIG.

The quality of products and services in Japan is rooted in its culture, often subconsciously absorbed without direct awareness. Central concepts such as Monozukuri (the craftsmanship spirit), Kaizen (ongoing enhancement and continual improvement), and Kodawari (relentless focus on detail) underscore this relationship.

While these three tenets serve as a starting point for Part 1 and Part 2 of this series, in Parts 3 and 4 (Part 4 to be published in June) we will delve , examining 10 dimensions of how culture shapes quality in Japan.

The subconscious cultural influence on quality in Japan is a potent force that shapes products, services and professional environments. The following 10 concepts are intensely entrenched in the Japanese psyche and contribute significantly to the country's reputation for quality:

(1) Monozukuri, (2) Kaizen, (3) Kodawari ,(4) Wa and Chōwa, (5) Keigo and Giri, (6) Gaman and Nintai, (7) Dai-ichi inshou, (8) Dandori-hachi-bu, (9) Omotenashi, and (10) Hōsō.

When embraced and harnessed effectively, these cultural influences can become catalysts for professional success.

"This exploration reveals that the subconscious cultural influence on quality in Japan is not simply about meeting standards or exceeding benchmarks; it is about a profoundly ingrained ethos that permeates all aspects of life."

Understanding them provides a framework for achieving professional success in Japan. By embracing this culture of quality, individuals and companies can thrive in the Japanese workplace.

Here, we consider the first five concepts.

1. Embracing the craftsmanship spirit

Monozukuri (もの作り) is a term that encapsulates the spirit of manufacturing, representing the cultural pride of craftsmanship in Japan.

It underscores the idea that manufacturing should not merely result in a functional product, but that the process should be saturated with a significant sense of purpose and pride. This subconscious cultural aspect, ingrained in the Japanese mindset from an early age, significantly influences the quality of products made in Japan.

The appreciation and application of the Monozukuri concept encourage professionals to value their craft, view their work as an extension of their identity, and strive for excellence. Such commitment creates a strong foundation for career growth, contributing to the quality of work while fostering pride and fulfilment.

2. Implementing continual improvement

Kaizen (改善) is a central principle in Japan’s workplaces, emphasising continual, incremental improvements, promoting the idea that, no matter how good a process is, it can always be better. This cultural norm pushes Japanese companies to strive for excellence, constantly seeking ways to refine their products, services and internal processes.

Adopting Kaizen in the daily work routine motivates individuals to embrace change for continual learning and improvement. It nurtures resilience, flexibility and innovation, which are vital in navigating the ever-changing professional landscape.

For companies, implementing Kaizen creates an environment conducive to constant evolution, boosting competitiveness.

3. Incorporating obsession with detail

The concept of Kodawari (こだわり) is a testament to Japan’s diligent approach to work. It is a complex term, often translated as an extreme obsession with detail. It indicates the conscientious effort to execute tasks to the point of perfection – one of the major cultural attributes that contributes to the quality of output in Japan.

By incorporating Kodawari, professionals can elevate the quality of their work, differentiate themselves, and boost their career trajectory.

For businesses, embedding Kodawari into the organisational culture promotes exceptional standards of product and service delivery, enhancing customer satisfaction and brand reputation.

4. Promoting collaboration and harmony

Another important aspect of Japanese culture is the concept of Wa, which can mean ‘peace’, ‘harmony’, or ‘balance’. A high value is placed on maintaining positive group dynamics and avoiding conflict.

By promoting teamwork, companies can boost morale, foster a positive work environment, and enhance productivity, which contributes to quality output.

While Wa can be used to express the concept of harmony and balance in a collaborative setting, Chouwa or Chōwa (調和) is a more specific term that emphasises the importance of creating a harmonious environment where everyone’s opinions and ideas are valued and respected.

Chouwa can be translated as finding a peaceful coexistence between different elements or aspects, or states of agreement, equilibrium or coordination between different elements or aspects.

So, both Wa and Chouwa can be used to express collaboration and harmony, but Chouwa is a more nuanced term that specifically refers to a harmonious and balanced environment.

5. Respecting hierarchy and tradition

Japanese work culture is rooted in respect for hierarchy and tradition. This respect for authority ensures smooth operations within the organisation and enhances the quality of service delivery.

The concept of respecting hierarchy and tradition in Japan is often encapsulated by the terms Keigo and Giri.

Keigo (敬語) is a type of Japanese speech that exhibits politeness, respect and humility. It plays a vital role in the hierarchical structure of Japanese society and is particularly used when talking to superiors or people of higher social status.

Giri (義理) loosely translates to duty, responsibility –returning the favour, obligation, or even social obligation. It represents a strong sense of duty and respect for societal and familial roles and traditions, leading to actions that uphold social harmony and order.

It is important to note that these terms capture the idea of respect for hierarchy and tradition, but the concepts are more complex and encompassing in the Japanese context. The societal structure, historical context and cultural norms make respecting hierarchy and tradition a multifaceted aspect of Japanese culture.

Looking ahead in our series

This discussion will continue in Part 4 of this series, exploring hidden dimensions of national aspects when you work in Japan by continuing explanations on ‘catalyst for quality culture’, covering the Japanese terms of Gaman, Dai-ichi-inshou, Dandori-hachi-bu, Omotenashi, and Hōsō.

Acknowledgement: This part of our series has undergone review and comment by a distinguished team of international experts, each of whom has either resided in Japan or conducted in-depth studies on that country, or are of Japanese nationality: Richard Brett, Hiroyuki Iwamoto (岩本博之), Ryo Kanno (菅野亮), Shinya Watanabe (渡邉慎也), and Toshihiro Koga (古賀稔広).

The author acknowledges and sincerely values the significant contributions and expertise they have provided.