View from the window seat on a plane to Tokyo
March 21, 2018
by John Flavin, Executive Vice President, Manufacturing and Distribution Solutions, Sales
In my role at Infor, I am fortunate to have many opportunities to

That doesn’t mean my recent trip to Tokyo was all predictable and standard fare. On the contrary, I was eager for the chance to see first-hand how the Japanese manufacturing industry is embracing disruptive technologies like digitalization and how certain challenges, like the aging workforce, are impacting Japan. My hosts were gracious in setting numerous opportunities to visit plants and talk to customers. I was impressed with the hum of activity and the general positive feeling about the local economy.
It seems, from conversation with local leaders, that Japan’s Great Stagnation, which has malingered since the 1990s, is coming to a close. Manufacturers are looking to invest in their infrastructure, including equipment and business systems which support smart interaction with customers and prospects. Like all of us, businesses in Tokyo are looking for ways to harness sensor-based data and turn it into meaningful insights—especially business intelligence which can improve operational efficiency on the shop floor (like Factory Track) and enhance relationships with the customer base (like Infor CRM).
I also enjoyed the opportunity to tour an auto parts company and manufacturer of heavy equipment. In both locations, I was impressed with the level of commitment to quality, pride in modern technologies, and drive to continue refining business operations. It was clear that an underlying goal is or profitability for all the stakeholders, from owners and c-level officers to line-of-business managers and assembly workers. Everyone will benefit from manufacturing’s modernization, I am continually reminded.
It was a productive trip. I am happy to be home, though. I am diligently back to work planning how our sales force can continue to make connections worldwide. We have a story to tell, I know. And, you—our manufacturing customers--also have stories, from around the world, worth listening to. Perhaps your plant can be on my next travel itinerary.
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