Decision-making Process Leading to Health and Productivity Management Certification Application in Large Japanese Companies.

Abstract

This study aimed to clarify the decision-making process leading to Health and Productivity Management Certification in large Japanese companies and identify its structural features. Between September and October 2024, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 managers from certified companies. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with reference to the Gioia method. The process formed a 3-layer Stage-Phase-Category model, with phases progressing cyclically and interactively. Organizational factors-including human resources, authority, positional roles, consensus-building, collaboration, information, and coordination-shaped decisions at each stage. This model highlights the dynamic and multidimensional nature of organizational decision-making, which cannot be fully captured by conventional frameworks. Future research should broaden industry and company size coverage, incorporate quantitative assessments, and include international comparisons to advance understanding of Health and Productivity Management decision-making.