Abstract
Purpose. The paper aims at analyzing the approach of the Japanese Government towards the impacts of the fourth industrial revolution.
Design/methodology/approach. The paper discusses the application of the Frey and Osborne model to the Japanese labor market as a way to analyze the repercussions of computerization. Furthermore, it provides an overview on the most recent policies devised by the Japanese Government in order to prepare the society for the change, with a specific focus on strategic planning for human resources development.
Findings. In the case of Japan, there is a lack of official data that can be used to apply the Frey and Osborne model. The plans of the Japanese Government are ambitious and comprehensive, but do not seem to be based on a full feasibility analysis tailored on the current situation of the Japanese labor market.
Research limitations/implications. The research draws its conclusions from previous contributions in order to broaden the dialogue on the fourth industrial revolution outside of the US and EU.
Originality/value. The paper adds to the debate on the way in which national governments could deal with the fourth industrial revolution.
Paper type. Issues paper.