Episode 2:Design concepts of our founder, Shu Tsuji
(excerpt from “Shu Tsuji: Autobiography of a Machinist”)

1. It is not possible to go from test manufacture to a finished product without finding defects.

2. If you see a defect, be sure to correct it. It’s bound to happen and excuses don’t hold water.

3. Try to pin down the cause of the defect. Every problem has a reason.

4. Do not make easy-to-do improvements simply by judging from appearances. For example, if something breaks, when you repair it don’t make it, say, 10% or 30% stronger — no, be prepared to make it 200% or even 500% stronger.

5. There is surely a way to achieve just about any desired improvement. Young people and others may say, “There is no way to improve this product further”, but they should be made to consider more deeply. “Pollen and sperm cells, so small they’re invisible, come in millions of different types. That’s a miracle of life. Finding ways to improve things is nothing compared to that.” He made us realize how true that is.

6. Keep at it, one attempt after another, until it’s right. A design has to be honed 3, maybe 5, times before it’s ready to inspire the creation of a product.

7. Prioritize quality rather than price. Lowering your prices is one way to improve things. Eliminating defects in the manufacturing process and selling lots of products is a good way to arrive at lower prices.