HRM in Japan and the West: What are the Lessons to Be Learnt from Each Other?

Author: Markus Pudelko

Source: Asian Business & Management, Volume 3, Number 3, September 2004 , pp. 337-361(25)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $43.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

In view of increasing perceptions of Japanese human resource management (HRM) as in crisis, this paper examines whether Japanese HR managers are seeking to adopt Western practices to overcome these difficulties, and if so, which Western model is most favoured. Given the esteem accorded until recently to Japanese HRM by many Western commentators, the extent to which Western HR managers (still) see reasons for learning from Japan is also examined. The specific aspects of HRM to which each set of managers is disposed are analysed in detail by surveying the views of Japanese and Western (US and German) HR managers. Results show that both Western and Japanese HR experts perceive Japanese HRM increasingly critically, and that Japanese managers now seek to learn chiefly from American HRM practices. It is argued, however, that the predominant Japanese focus on the US model may be unwise; learning from other models is not just a question of which direction to go, but also how far to go. Taking inspiration from a more ‘balanced’ model, such as that of Germany, might offer valuable guidance, as it better ‘fits’ the Japanese context than the in many ways opposite American model.Asian Business & Management (2004) 3, 337–361. doi:10.1057/palgrave.abm.9200098

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.abm.9200098

Affiliations: 1: University of Edinburgh Management School, 50 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JY, UK., Email: markus.pudelko@ed.ac.uk

Publication date: 2004-09-01