Microsoft Corp’s Japan recently ran an experiment related to workplace productivity with positive results. The experiment involved a four day work week, more communication through chat rooms, and constraints on in person meetings. Productivity improved by about 40% and resource consumption also dropped. They do not intend to make this is full time policy, but it is an important first step toward a better Japanese workplace environment (in line with the goals of Prime Minister Abe). The majority of Japanese people are in favor of a four day work week.
My knowledge of Japanese corporate culture comes primarily from the Japanese film 「ちょっと今から仕事やめてくる」which follows a salaryman who works at a “black company,” or a company characterized by unpayed overtime, workplace abuse (physical or verbal), employee depression, and sometimes suicide. The protagonist is about to kill himself by falling in front of a train when someone saves his life. Throughout the course of the movie he gradually becomes happier ultimately concluding is his resignation from the job.
Though this is a film, these conditions seem to be the reality for some Japanese workers. As such the results of this experience resonate with hope for a more friendly and healthy workplace environment.
I also found it somewhat amusing that the article mentions that most people are in favor of a four day work week. Of course they are. Who isn’t?
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