Toshihiro Nishiguchi – författare

This book brings together the research of a number of scholars in the field of knowledge creation and imparts a sense of order to the field. The chapters share three characteristics: they are all grounded in extensive qualitative and/or quantitative research; they all go beyond the mere description of the knowledge-creation process and offer both theoretical and strategic implications; they share a view of knowledge creation and knowledge transfer as delicate processes, necessitating particular forms of support from managers.

Japanese industrial firms have developed a system of subcontracting with suppliers that has played a major role in their world-wide success. This book explores the historical evolution of subcontracting in Japan and analyses it in current practice.It develops a theory of `strategic dualism' that after nearly six decades of evolution is a new mode of contractual relations, based on principles of problem-solving collaborative manufacturing. This new form of contractual relations is supported by a range of institutional arrangements that drive prime contractors and subcontractors towards continuous improvement in product quality and cost reduction. It argues that this system is possible in a range of cultures different from Japan.

This book brings together the work of leading international researchers in the field of product innovation and development. Competitive success between firms nearly always depends on what new products they can develop and bring to market. Some contributors examine broad issues related to the impact of information technology and the role that social factors play in the successful development of products; they also describe the ways that Japanese firms develop products internationally. Others explore product development in the automobile, biotechnology, photolithographic, and textile machinery industries. The book thus provides a powerful guide to successful product development for firms in diverse industries.

This book brings together the research of a number of scholars in the field of knowledge creation and imparts a sense of order to the field. The chapters share three characteristics: they are all grounded in extensive qualitative and/or quantitative research; they all go beyond the mere description of the knowledge-creation process and offer both theoretical and strategic implications; they share a view of knowledge creation and knowledge transfer as delicateprocesses, necessitating particular forms of support from managers.

This book brings together the work of leading international researchers in the field of product innovation and development and provides a comprehensive range of studies in successful product development in different industries. It will be indispensable reading for academics in the field of innovation and technology management, and for professionals in industry responsible for product development.