Japanese Business Glossary

煩雑 (hanzatsu) refers to something that is complex, cumbersome, or complicated. This term is often used to describe processes, tasks, or situations that involve many intricate details and require considerable effort to manage or complete.

In a business context, a hanzatsu procedure might involve extensive paperwork, multiple steps, and strict regulations that need to be followed. The term can also apply to everyday situations where things are not straightforward and demand a lot of time and attention.

要望 (youbou) refers to a request, demand, or wish in Japanese. This term is used to express a desire or need for something specific from others, whether in personal, business, or public contexts.

In a business environment, customers may have specific youbou for products or services, such as particular features, quality standards, or delivery timelines. Employees might also express youbou to management, seeking changes in workplace conditions, job roles, or company policies. Addressing youbou effectively involves understanding the underlying needs and expectations, communicating clearly, and working towards satisfying these requests to build trust and improve relationships.

仕送り (shiokuri) refers to the practice of sending regular financial support to someone, typically a family member, who is living away from home. This often involves parents providing money to their children who are studying or working in a different city or country.

Shiokuri helps cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other necessities, ensuring that the recipient can focus on their studies or work without financial strain. It is a common practice in Japan, reflecting the strong sense of family responsibility and support.

法人登記 (houjin touki) refers to the process of corporate registration in Japan. This procedure involves officially registering a company as a legal entity with the relevant governmental authorities, which is necessary for the company to operate legally within the country.

The process begins with the preparation of necessary documents, including the Articles of Incorporation, which outline the company's purpose, structure, and other fundamental details. This document must be notarized. The next step involves appointing directors and auditors, and determining the company's capital and shares. Once these elements are in place, the company must file an application for registration with the Legal Affairs Bureau.

Houjin touki provides the company with a legal status, allowing it to engage in various business activities, enter into contracts, open bank accounts, and protect its business name and trademarks. It also ensures that the company is recognized by the government for taxation and regulatory purposes.

Successful registration results in the issuance of a registration certificate, which includes vital information such as the company's name, address, capital, and representatives. This certificate is often required for various business operations, including securing loans, leasing property, and establishing business relationships.

Overall, houjin touki is a crucial step in setting up a business in Japan, ensuring legal compliance and providing a solid foundation for the company's operations.

死亡保険 (shibou hoken) refers to life insurance in Japan, a type of insurance policy that provides financial protection to the beneficiaries of the insured person upon their death. This insurance is designed to offer peace of mind, ensuring that the insured person’s family or dependents receive financial support to cover expenses such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, and living expenses after the policyholder's death.

The policyholder pays regular premiums to the insurance company, and in return, the company agrees to pay a specified amount, known as the death benefit, to the designated beneficiaries when the insured person passes away. There are various types of shibou hoken, including term life insurance, which provides coverage for a specific period, and whole life insurance, which offers lifelong coverage and may include a savings component.

Choosing the right shibou hoken policy depends on the individual’s financial situation, family needs, and long-term goals. It is an important tool for financial planning, helping to ensure that loved ones are financially secure even after the policyholder's death.

人時 (ninji) refers to "man-hours" or "person-hours," a unit of measurement that quantifies the amount of work performed by an individual within one hour. It is commonly used in various industries and project management to estimate labor costs, plan resources, and assess productivity. For example, if a task is estimated to take 10 ninji, it means that it would require 10 hours of work from one person or could be completed in 1 hour by 10 people working simultaneously.

Understanding and calculating ninji is crucial for efficient project planning and management. It helps in setting realistic deadlines, allocating resources effectively, and controlling labor expenses. By analyzing the number of ninji required for different tasks, businesses can optimize workflows, improve efficiency, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This concept is particularly important in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and IT, where precise labor estimations are essential for successful project execution.