A Vision for a Vigorous Economy and Society

Yoichi Morishita Vice Chairman, Nippon Keidanren Chairman of the Board, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.

With the aim of constructing a "Vigorous Japan", we are now working on a structural reform of the socioeconomic system, a system which has contributed to the development of our country in the past. This is so to speak a "grand endeavor to build a future for Japan". Therefore, I am more and more convinced that we need to carry through with this reform having high ideals and a noble spirit like that of the Meiji Restoration.

Japan should not bind itself to the successful experience it has had in the past in carrying out this reform, but should adapt itself to changes taking place in the world economy and society. On the other hand, we should not forget the strengths that Japan has. Looking at the situation objectively, I think Japan has great economic potential. And we can boast to the world high-quality human resources and rich wisdom. Furthermore, "Japan's virtue", which has brought forth these strengths, forms the basis of our country. I think the true substance of "Japan's virtue" is "getting the most out of people's abilities".

Looking back on the 20^th century, Japan gained momentum as a "marvel of the world" by further improving on the mass production method first developed in Western countries. While adopting this production method, in which labor is divided into many functions and workers tend to become mere cogs in a wheel, Japan succeeded in bringing out the maximum ingenuity from individuals through quality control activities, employee suggestion systems and other activities. As a result, this unique creativity led to a big difference between Japan and the West.

Today, when a flexible production system is required that makes possible the production of a variety of products in varied quantities, we are shifting to a "Cell Production Method". With this method, each person can show their ingenuity and creativity in their own way as masters of multi-manufacturing processes. Thus we are trying to achieve innovation in order to "get the most out of people's abilities", but by a different method than the one used in the mass-production era.

People are able to find a sense of fulfillment and something to live for in their work only when they are entrusted with responsibility. Furthermore, we are well aware that people demonstrate their greatest ability when they can show their spontaneous ingenuity in an environment where they are able to improve themselves through their work. A vigorous society is one that is able to make maximum use of the abilities of individuals, as well as the strength of the private sector. I think the essence of Japan's structural reforms is found here. If we are able to continue to bear this in mind and maximize Japan's virtue, Japan will have a bright future. The future depends upon what each one of us does.