Logistics and management in the Land of the Rising Sun

Abstract

Self‐discipline, striving after perfection, systematicity, orderliness – thanks to these characteristics Japanese provided technological progress and economic growth to their country, promoting around the world philosophies which ensure efficient and effective business management. Lean management, just‐in‐time, kaizen, kanban, which have been initiated in Japan, growing out of its long tradition and culture. Their common thread is professionalism and perfection at all levels of the career as well as respect for the opinion and work of another person. It seems that these are basic principles, but sometimes they come with difficulties for people in implementing Japanese principles to manage European companies. In this article, which has theoretical nature, we analyze basis of the systems used for management and logistics at many companies around the world. We also present the differences between the Japanese and European structure in this aspect.