Open-innovative developments of precision die making technology and on-site capabilities

(Innovation Strategies for the Japanese Manufacturing SME)

Abstract

Japanese manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have long supported the backbone of the Japanese economy based on their superior technologies and on-site capabilities; however, they are currently at a major crossroads in today's severe and rapidly changing environment. One of Japanese SMEs, Nissin Precision Machines (Nissin), with precision die making technology at its core, is attempting to bring innovation to its manufacturing site to combat the challenges of the current economic and business climates and to position itself for the long-term. Nissin has introduced its innovation strategies to achieve autonomous and sustainable development to withstand any environmental changes. To name a few examples: Nissin engages in open and collaborative innovation activities with its rival die manufacturers along with notable academic institutions, collaborative productions with designers that have incorporated design concepts into its works, and deliberately strengthens production management through the bottom-up approach enhanced by its front-line members and utilization of DX.