Riding the wave of change
Insights and analysis from Great Wave Consulting
Introduction Unlocking your full potential might sound like a self-help cliché, but what if there’s a tool that actually helps you do it? A year ago, I was at 0; today, I’m celebrating my 3,500th session with FocusMate (FM) and will celebrate my 1-year anniversary in five weeks. The Journey So Far I was averaging nearly 1,000 sessions per quarter, […]
Introduction Growing up in the 1980s, it seemed like Japan was often in the news. Often news reports emphasized Japan’s performance in academic subjects, such as mathematics, or how working or attending school six days a week was “normal.”Japan’s overwork culture has drawn international attention due to its association with burnout, mental health issues, and even “karoshi” (death from overwork). […]
Introduction: The Potential of AI for a Sustainable Future What is the potential of AI for a sustainable future? In this article, we will discuss the rapid AI advancements, the potential impacts on various industries, and AI and the environment, looking at industry cases to address environmental concerns and the role of AI in Japan. The story of Andrew, an […]
Introduction Japan’s overtime reforms in 2023 are part of preparing the workforce for staying competitive and overcoming the challenges of an aging society. Meanwhile, workers in France are protesting the increase in the retirement age. Japan faces a different challenge – convincing its workforce to stop working overtime and go home. Known for its strong work ethic and long hours, […]
THE CANOE AND CARGO SHIP METAPHOR Social inertia refers to the tendency of a society to resist change and maintain the status quo. This phenomenon can be metaphorically compared to the differences between a canoe and a cargo ship, representing individualistic and communal societies. Individualistic societies, such as the United States, are agile and adaptable like a canoe, while communal […]
Market Research and Consulting to Understanding Japanese Consumer Behavior and Business Dynamics Understanding Japanese consumer behavior is crucial for marketers, market researchers, and executives working in Japan, as it is a country with an even more distinct culture that has fascinated people worldwide for centuries – especially considering consumer behavior, market entry, and business opportunities. This article is for firms: […]
Japan’s Historical Timeline By understanding Japan’s historical timeline and major events, you can gain valuable insights into a distinct culture. History continues to impact modern consumers’ values and behaviors. Understanding this background is essential when conducting market research. Japan has a rich and diverse history shaped by various factors, including political and economic forces, cultural traditions, and natural disasters. This […]
As the world’s third-largest economy, Japan has long been viewed as a desirable market for foreign companies. But to succeed in this competitive market, it’s essential to understand the unique needs and wants of Japanese consumers. Market research can provide invaluable insights into the Japanese marketplace, giving companies the information they need to make informed decisions about their products and […]
Multi-country surveys in Asia are an essential tool for market research. They allow businesses to gather data from a large number of consumers in a short amount of time, making them an efficient way to understand consumer trends and preferences. Challenges in MULTI-COUNTRY SURVEYS However, conducting a successful multi-country survey can be challenging. The multitude of countries results in different […]
Market research in Japan is vital to understanding what products and services consumers and society need and want. Sitting in the Pacific Ocean along the “Ring of Fire” results in volcanos, earthquakes, tsunamis, and torrential typhoons; Japan’s geographic position has played a critical role in its cultural and historical development. To the West, the nations of China, Russia, the Korean […]
