Book excerpt: This book provides a multilateral view of Japanese management control systems (MCS), presents the frameworks of MCS theory, and integrates those systems based on quantitative and qualitative research. Readers will learn how Japanese MCS were investigated by researchers and why they chose the existing frameworks. Not only are the topics clarified with regard to Japanese MCS; empirical evidence from Japan is also provided. At the outset, the frameworks of MCS used by Japanese researchers are explained, and the reasons they choose those frameworks are investigated. Following that exploration, readers are shown a close examination of MCS, which are thought to be difficult to understand in Japan. In Japanese companies, however, these systems are generally used, so in other words Japanese companies use MCS without considering its frameworks. It is a baffling phenomenon, thus a fine topic of research. After a comprehensive review of the literature, the current status of Japanese MCS is presented by using both quantitative and qualitative research. By the end of the book, readers will have a firm grasp of how Japanese firms use MCS and what MCS means for Japanese companies.