This book is a complement to "Theory Z" in the field of production, aiming to analyze the main factors of success of Japanese companies and study the applicability of Japanese methods in American industries. The subtitle indicates that the secret of Japanese success lies in the use of simple techniques, two of which are highlighted in this work: 1. Elimination of inventory (just-in-time production), and 2. Total Quality Control. The emphasis on the simplicity of Japanese solutions reminds us of the main lesson from another bestseller, "In Search of Excellence," which emphasizes the Japanese ability to use simple solutions. Each of the nine chapters corresponds to a "lesson in simplicity." The first lesson states that administrative technology can be easily transferred between countries or industries. The second lesson discusses the problems exposed by just-in-time production, which forces continuous improvement of productivity. The third lesson emphasizes that quality originates in production and requires a continuous attitude of progress. The fourth lesson states that culture is not an obstacle; techniques change behavior. The fifth lesson suggests simplifying the physical layout of the factory to allow products to flow as water. The sixth lesson highlights the importance of flexibility in production. The seventh lesson discusses the modern purchasing system, which requires loyalty and frequent contact between buyer and supplier. The eighth lesson states that industry should dispense with the collaboration of specialists, as production managers and workers can handle improvement projects. The ninth lesson suggests that Western industry should simplify and integrate its procedures. The book provides a clear and vigorous explanation of the core of Japanese production methods, particularly total quality control and inventory elimination. However, other elements of Japanese success, such as automation, innovation, technology, research, business strategy, and cultural aspects, should also be considered. Regardless of the validity of the author's theses, the book is a valuable contribution to the teaching of various disciplines in administration.This book is a complement to "Theory Z" in the field of production, aiming to analyze the main factors of success of Japanese companies and study the applicability of Japanese methods in American industries. The subtitle indicates that the secret of Japanese success lies in the use of simple techniques, two of which are highlighted in this work: 1. Elimination of inventory (just-in-time production), and 2. Total Quality Control. The emphasis on the simplicity of Japanese solutions reminds us of the main lesson from another bestseller, "In Search of Excellence," which emphasizes the Japanese ability to use simple solutions. Each of the nine chapters corresponds to a "lesson in simplicity." The first lesson states that administrative technology can be easily transferred between countries or industries. The second lesson discusses the problems exposed by just-in-time production, which forces continuous improvement of productivity. The third lesson emphasizes that quality originates in production and requires a continuous attitude of progress. The fourth lesson states that culture is not an obstacle; techniques change behavior. The fifth lesson suggests simplifying the physical layout of the factory to allow products to flow as water. The sixth lesson highlights the importance of flexibility in production. The seventh lesson discusses the modern purchasing system, which requires loyalty and frequent contact between buyer and supplier. The eighth lesson states that industry should dispense with the collaboration of specialists, as production managers and workers can handle improvement projects. The ninth lesson suggests that Western industry should simplify and integrate its procedures. The book provides a clear and vigorous explanation of the core of Japanese production methods, particularly total quality control and inventory elimination. However, other elements of Japanese success, such as automation, innovation, technology, research, business strategy, and cultural aspects, should also be considered. Regardless of the validity of the author's theses, the book is a valuable contribution to the teaching of various disciplines in administration.