Japanese Innovation in Marketing & Strategy | Online MBA Trial Class
Event Overview
When we think about innovation, we often imagine creating something entirely new, a new technology, product, or business model.
But innovation can also begin by questioning something much more fundamental: an assumption that everyone else takes for granted.
In this interactive Online MBA Trial Class, we’ll explore this idea through the case of UNIQLO, comparing its approach with Zara to examine how different ways of thinking about customers and competition can lead to very different strategies. Through the case, we’ll look at how UNIQLO challenged conventional thinking within the apparel industry—and how rethinking a fundamental assumption can itself become a source of innovation. From there, we’ll go beyond marketing to consider how a strategic innovation can influence other areas of a business, from products and operations to cost, quality, and competitive advantage.
During the class, we’ll consider questions such as:
- What do we really mean when we call something “innovative”?
- How can companies competing in the same industry take very different approaches to their customers?
- What happens when a company challenges a long-standing assumption about its market?
- Why can rethinking something fundamental be a form of innovation?
- How can an innovation that begins in marketing create benefits across a broader business?
You’ll also have the opportunity to consider how these ideas could apply to your own work and role.
Experience the GLOBIS Classroom:
Rather than simply listening to a lecture, you'll be invited to share your perspective throughout the class.There is no need to worry about finding the “right” answer, we're here to learn.
This interactive format will give you a firsthand experience of the discussion-based learning approach used in the GLOBIS MBA.
This session is especially suited for those who:
- Are considering an MBA or the GLOBIS Pre-MBA program
- Want to experience a GLOBIS class before applying
- Are interested in marketing, strategy, innovation, or Japanese business
- Want to strengthen their ability to analyze real-world business challenges
- Are interested in how challenging established assumptions can create new opportunities
No previous marketing experience is required.
Join us to experience a GLOBIS MBA class and consider a question that can apply across industries, functions, and roles:
What is one fundamental assumption in your own work that might be worth revisiting?
Agenda
| 05:00–05:05 PM | Opening & Introductions |
|---|---|
| 05:05–05:50 PM | Trial Class |
| 05:50–06:00 PM | Audience Q&A & Closing |
Lecturer
Yasuyuki Kato
President and CEO, GLOBIS USA, Inc."Every time I attend international conferences on organizational development and HR, I am reminded of how profoundly AI and the accelerating pace of change are reshaping organizations and the way people work. In a world growing more complex and interconnected, I believe there is increasing value in bringing together different approaches to leadership and management.
As Hub Leader of GLOBIS USA, I hope to connect the strengths of Japan—long-term orientation, harmony, and purpose-driven leadership rooted in kokorozashi (志) (a deeply held sense of personal mission)—with the entrepreneurial energy, innovation, and diversity of the United States and the broader Americas.
GLOBIS USA serves as a bridge between GLOBIS Japan and the Americas by introducing GLOBIS's MBA and business education opportunities, providing leadership development and organizational transformation solutions, and building a community where leaders can learn from one another and create meaningful impact. I look forward to connecting with more leaders and organizations who share this aspiration!"