According to Dr. A. D. Chandler, “industry age” was replaced by “information age” in the 1990's. How did software business, which is a leading part of such “information age”, develop in Japanese electronic industry? What features does Japanese software business have? What are current key issues to be solved for future development in such Japanese software business?
Firstly, development of software business in Japanese electronic industry is overviewed and key issues for business strategies are analyzed in three aspects, namely (1) monopolization of operating software, (2) placing too much emphasis on software customization, (3) competition with Chinese and Indian software venders. To narrow the subject of study, focus is made on the software related with PC, TV and cellular phone, which are familiar to our everyday lives.
Secondary, future trend of “information appliances” is analyzed and possible software applications are examined. “Integration of hardware and software” would be a key concept to consider future development of Japanese software business.
Thirdly, role of industrial policy for the development of software technology is discussed in order to consider “future images of Japanese enterprises”, which is the main theme of this year's meeting. Focus is made on lobbying activities by companies to formulate an effective industrial policy.

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