Genba-shugi: The Hands-on Approach

Abstract

This paper discusses the concept of genba-shugi by focusing on contexts in which the term has been used: Japanese-style in business management and in technical cooperation, and organizational reform in JICA, which is an implementing agency of Japan's ODA. These contexts have share in common an attempt by people close to genba (field or locality) to emphasize their superiority and initiative against imaginary rivals: Western-Style and Central ministries. While these are rationalized based on authorities such as abstract “models” from developed countries or the interests of the central government, the theory of genba-shugi draws on feelings and experiences in genba for its justification.