Japanese culture treats process knowledge as something that should be captured, documented, and transmitted—as organizational and cultural asset rather than individual possession. Written procedures ensure consistency across people and time. Standards enable training at scale. Documentation means improvements can be captured and shared.
This orientation treats process knowledge as too valuable to exist only in individual memory or skill. Current practitioners inherit methods from predecessors and bear responsibility for transmitting them to successors. True expertise includes ability to articulate and teach method, not just personal capability.
When working with Japanese organizations, expect serious attention to documentation, training materials, and process standards. This investment reflects values about knowledge preservation and transmission.
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