Why in Hi-Tech Japan Do Faxes and Floppy Disks Continue to Be So Popular? A Myth Debunked
In the world of advanced technology, the prevalence of faxes and floppy disks in Japan is often a subject of scrutiny. However, the reality is quite different from the portrayal by the mainly Anglo media. While these antiquated technologies might have a niche which explains their continued relevance, they are far from being a cornerstone of modern Japanese industry. This article will debunk this popular myth and reveal the actual usage of these technologies in today's industrial and commercial landscapes.
The Lasting Legacy of Industry
“Actually some companies in the US also still use floppy disks because of the simple fact that technology built in the 80s relies on floppy disks to exchange data. The Boeing 747 is an example of this.”
This quote, attributed to some companies in the US, indeed holds some truth. In Japan, where the manufacturing industry has been robust for decades and particularly vibrant in the 1980s, some industrial equipment and machinery still rely on floppy disks. These machines are often highly customized and expensive to replace, making them the best choice for specific industrial processes, even after four decades. This explains why some companies in Japan continue to use floppy disks.
Real-World Examples and Usage
One example from my work experience in Japan provides insight into the continued use of these technologies. While working in domestic B2B sales, I was told by office staff about a family-run reseller who used faxes to send purchase orders. The head of the company was in his 70s and appreciated the ease of saving every purchase order in a physical folder, making the fax process convenient for him. However, this is far from being a widespread practice in my professional experience.
The Current Reality in Japan
“I work in a Japanese company and cannot remember the last time we either sent or received a fax. Floppy disks You’ve gotta be joking! It’s been years since we used them. This is true for everyone I know.”
Based on my 10 years of experience working in a Japanese company, the frequency and necessity of using faxes and floppy disks are almost non-existent. We possess a fax number for backup purposes, but it is never used. The same goes for floppy disks; their usage has become a thing of the past. Many companies in Japan have moved towards online faxing solutions, further reducing the need for these outdated methods of data exchange.
Conclusion
The continued use of faxes and floppy disks in Japan is often misconstrued by the Anglo media. While these technologies may still hold a place in specific industrial and business settings, their usage is minimal and driven by specific needs rather than general adoption. The myth that Japanese companies are heavily reliant on these outdated technologies needs to be debunked. In the age of advanced technology, it is clear that Japan, despite its hi-tech reputation, is moving towards more modern and efficient methods of data exchange.