Nemawashi (根回し)
Nemawashi is a Japanese consensus-building process used to prepare stakeholders before major decisions or changes, such as tech rollouts or business transformations. At companies like Toyota, it involves informal discussions, gathering input, and aligning expectations to avoid resistance. It emphasizes that how a decision is made matters as much as the outcome. Research shows most transformation initiatives fail or underperform—Nemawashi can improve success by reducing surprises and building trust. It includes understanding problems, exploring options, engaging stakeholders early, and confirming support before formal action. The approach fosters smoother implementation and stronger, more sustainable organizational change.