Comparative Study of Manufacturing Strategy between Japanese and Western Approaches: An Overview

Japan and the West have contributed different manufacturing strategies based on their own unique practices and cultures. This study aims to identify and differentiate the approaches towards the manufacturing strategies of the Japanese from those of the West, which could provide important implications for manufacturing practice and performance. The factors being compared for both the Japanese and Western approaches include manufacturing strategy, basis, focus, production method, production line, operations, equipment, workforce, quality, organizational philosophy, business strategy, improvement, and overall aim. The Japanese and Western manufacturing are also compared in terms of culture, personnel, organization, management, and appraisal. Blending the advantages between Japan and the West will be a struggle that, if succeeded, would end in the enhancement of manufacturing strategies to pursue competitiveness.