This image appeared in the January 1982 issue of Training and Development Journal. The article, by Leslie A. Bryan, Jr., compared the management styles of the Japanese and American first-line supervisor. While Americans value individuality, the bottom line is productivity. The article pointed out that decreasing productivity cannot be blamed entirely on the workers or the supervisors. Government regulations, equipment, and the unskilled labor force can have a negative effect on productivity.

What differences do you see in foreign workers and American workers? What is the biggest reason behind the decrease in productivity in your workplace?

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