2016 Volume 15 Issue 2 Pages 115-123
In this study, we focused on exemplary cases of product development at type B vocational aid centers (VACs) that aim to enable persons with disabilities, who have difficulty obtaining regular employment, to participate in society and earn an income. We surveyed seven VACs and three prefectural governments to analyze successful methods of product development and design management as well as the effect of support provided by each prefecture. As a result, four common items were identified as factors for success: 1) development of original products that are competitive; 2) ingenious human resource management; 3) ingenious sales and marketing; and 4) strategic incorporation of regional strengths into the business. In addition, we found that even though the government support provided to the VACs generally had an effect to increase the wages, it was not an essential factor for success.
