Quote Originally Posted by Chocobits View Post
I could be very off base with this observation, and if so correct me, but I've always felt that the Japanese business model revolved around the fact that JPs are more docile and less vocally objective than in countries like the US, so they don't tend to cry foul like we would. Negotiations are done in pubs and taverns over many drinks, and it's customary for one or both parties to bring "gifts" to the meeting, including money, women, jewelry or other incentives. Don't confuse gifts with bribes though - they're two very different things!

If something goes terribly wrong and an apology is needed, it's a very overly melodramatic affair where someone falls on their sword and accepts responsibility, instead of laying out a clear and concise plan out action to remedy the situation. (Tanakaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa)

Which works great. If your only customers are Japanese clients. Since they're not, antiquated business model is antiquated.
So at Nintendo Iwata took a 50% pay cut in response to the poor performance of the Nintendo 3DS... I think I appreciate that better now. But at least Nintendo have acted quickly and concisely and thus stand a chance of rebounding. Squeenix.... not so much.

It reminds me about what I learnt about customer behavior and their expectations varying around the world.
- Americans want people to run around them involving as many people as possible to get a problem fixed, regardless of how costly or time consuming.
- Germans don't really care about the customer service as long as the product quality ends up being top notch.
- Australians are really lazy and want the first person they speak to to push the magic "fix" button and take care of things behind the scenes quickly.
- I guess the Japanese want to see the person responsible take responsibility.

(Remember, these are general trends and don't describe EVERYONE in the given nationality.)