ABSTRACT
In this paper, the author concentrates primarily on general patterns of decision making within Japan, in all aspects. Three different general patterns of decision making are frequently encountered: Traditional power approach, Compromise and Consensus. Decision making by consensus is generally the norm followed in Japan. In looking at this type of Japanese decision making, it is interesting to note that since it does not follow the usual American top-to-bottom style, the people often tend to assume that it must be a bottom-to-top form of decision making. Since communication, both verbal and non-verbal, plays a key role in decision making, differences between Americans and Japanese need to be considered. Important elements related to decision making include the emphasis on a definite structure of who communicates with whom, and how and why. Negotiating and making decisions with the Japanese is difficult and challenging, but not impossible.
