Table of Contents
Hitoshi Goto
Ukihiko Takagi
In the previous article, we introduced the characteristics of global projects, where Japanese norms do not apply. This time, we will look at key points for overseas projects.
Do Not Take Japan’s Convenience for Granted
When working overseas, securing meeting rooms is a prime example of where Japanese norms do not apply. While it is common for corporate meeting rooms to be fully booked, even in regional cities outside of Tokyo or Osaka, it is relatively easy to find nearby rental meeting rooms or cafés.
However, if you assume such Japanese conveniences exist overseas as well, you will be in for a rude awakening.
This was when Company B first expanded into Brazil. At that time, the factory was still under construction, and the sales office was temporarily set up in a cramped space. Nevertheless, it was time to begin requirements definition. Fortunately, we were able to borrow a meeting room at Company T’s South American branch, which saved the day—but this really should have been clarified at the point of accepting the work (at contract signing).
You may be forced to use hotel meeting rooms and the like, incurring various costs that are easily overlooked in Japan. Other expenses include electricity, water, telecommunications, overseas allowances, and sometimes transportation costs. These must be carefully considered when preparing project budgets.
When long-term accommodation is required (which is usually the case), lodging costs naturally become billable items, but there is more to consider. You need to gather information about whether supermarkets and laundry facilities are nearby, whether daily necessities can be obtained (for example, many people find that local shampoo and conditioner do not suit them), and so forth.
Logistics: A Critical Factor in Global Projects
Securing transportation is also important. Please understand that cities like Tokyo, where you can conveniently get anywhere by subway or JR, are rare. Last trains also run early.
A member who participated in a project in Thailand worked late every day. The local driver was a kind person who shuttled them between the hotel and factory day and night without complaint. However, one day, when they asked for two round trips in a single day, the driver said, ‘I don’t have enough gas money.’
Since the project member did not know what kind of contract was in place, they reluctantly paid out of pocket for the time being, even while feeling suspicious.
From the project management side, it is easy to forget to arrange local transportation for the many project members. However, attention must be paid to shuttle vehicle contracts, company bus schedules, and available seat numbers.
We refer to facilities, meeting rooms, transportation, daily necessities, and dining locations collectively as ‘logistics’. Originally a military term meaning to deliver supplies to soldiers, logistics is particularly important in global projects.
The starting point is to keep in mind that countries like Japan, where hotels and convenience stores are everywhere and goods are easily obtainable, are rare in the world.
