Theory Z


Theory Z is a management concept that looks at motivating workers. It is of benefit to managers and business owners as it describes the main advantages, drawbacks, success factors and case evidence from some of the market leaders.

Technique Overview

Theory Z

Theory Z Definition

Theory Z expounds a management style blending Japanese and US organisational values. Developed by William Ouchi, it emphasises a strong company philosophy, a distinct corporate culture, long-range development and employment, consensual decision-making, and moderately specialised career paths (Adeniyi, 2007; Daft, 2004).

Theory Z Description *

* The full technique overview will be available soon. Contact us to register your interest in our business management platform, and learn all about Theory Z.

Business Evidence

Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Theory Z *

* The business evidence section is for premium members only. Please contact us about accessing the Business Evidence.

Business Application

Implementation, success factors and measures of Theory Z *

* The business application section is for premium members only. Please contact us about accessing the Business application.

Professional Tools

Theory Z videos and downloads *

* The professional tools section is for premium members only. Please contact us about accessing the professional tools.

Further Reading

Theory Z web and print resources *

Theory Z references (4 of up to 20) *

  • Adeniyi, M.A. (2007) Effective Leadership Management: An Integration of Styles, Skills, & Character for Today's CEOs. AuthorHouse, Bloomington, Indiana, US.
  • Daft, R.L. (2004) Theory Z: Opening the Corporate Door for Participative Management. Academy of Management Executive, Vol. 18(4), pp. 117-21.
  • Halibozek, E.P. and Kovacich, G.L. (2005) Mergers and Acquisitions Security. Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford, UK.
  • Hollwitz, J. and Matthiesen, E. (1981) Improved Communication: Improved Productivity. Proceedings, Southwest American Business Communications Association, Houston.

* The further reading section is for premium members only. Please contact us about accessing the further reading.


Learn more about KnowledgeBrief Manage and how you can equip yourself with the knowledge to succeed on Theory Z and hundreds of other essential business management techniques

Other members were also interested in...

Related Concept: Safeguarding

This technique offers a review of the essential concept of safeguarding, exploring the legal requirements, explanations and application. It presents a number of case studies and success factors showing you how to create a safe and secure working environment for your staff, clients and customers.