The Myths of Japanese Quality

By Ray Eberts and Cindelyn Eberts

Book Overview

This text debates the quality of Japanese products and companies, pointing to the existence of apparently badly-made products and an imperfect system that discourages improvement. This book examines the quality theories of W. Edwards Deming in relation to the Japanese business environment.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0131808036
• ISBN13: 9780131808034
• Release Date: January 1995
• Publisher: Prentice Hall Direct
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 1.0" x 7.5"

Customer Reviews

Great read

If you are into quality control this is a must read. I can't over emphasize that point. A friend of mine taught in Japan and told me the same horror stories the book reveals about the country and its practices. My ex girlfriend (who is Japanese and an anthropolgy major) also confirmed it. This just goes to show the power of the myth. Everyone has bought into this "japanese quality myth" hook, line and sinker. Its amazing.

Wonderful TQM research tool

I found this book is a must read for anyone doing research into Total Quality Management, (TQM), and Deming's theories. Anyone doing research into how Deming's theories are being promoted in public schools will really appreciate this book.

Provocative book.

The Eberts combine their training in culture, quality issues, and their experiences in Japan into a readable book which effectively raises questions about just how Japan matches the US in many areas. The book uses their two perspectives well, and the combination is much better than either alone. Their conclusions about Japan are intriguing, and it would be interesting whether the ideas apply to China. I would guess that they do. In that case, the issues that the US faces in the near future are very serious, and must be brought into the general discussion.