One issue is that most successful startups in the past two decades have been related to computer software, while Japan's strength has rather been electronic appliances.
Since computers are becoming more appliance-like, Japan's fortunes may well be on the rise again.
In a "software-appliance" world, attention to detail across the whole user experience will rule the day. A lot of Japan's companies have this in their DNA. Most American companies get it at most 95% right and leave the rest up to the "smart and motivated user."
Perhaps a part of the reason for the App Store's success, is that it promotes the model of "Application as Appliance?"
Since computers are becoming more appliance-like, Japan's fortunes may well be on the rise again.
In a "software-appliance" world, attention to detail across the whole user experience will rule the day. A lot of Japan's companies have this in their DNA. Most American companies get it at most 95% right and leave the rest up to the "smart and motivated user."
Perhaps a part of the reason for the App Store's success, is that it promotes the model of "Application as Appliance?"