Labor market shortages and the need to increase productivity for sustainable growth are driving forces of “workstyle reforms” and business transformation in Japan and Germany. Digitalization, in particular, opens opportunities for operational flexibility, business innovation and adding value in “Internet of Things” markets. After advanced companies have forged ahead, governments are now increasingly advancing “Work 4.0” reforms in Germany and “Society 5.0” concepts in Japan to support companies with their innovation initiatives.

How can traditional companies harness the digital platforms and workstyles of the ‘millennial generation’ to gain from better communication within and across companies, flatter hierarchies and closer integration with external partners? How can governments shape workstyle reforms to support employee work/life balance as much as corporate productivity? This symposium brings together experts and progressive companies from Germany and Japan to discuss strategies for future-oriented workplace reforms during the ongoing digital transformation.

Program and Registration with FRI