#Japan #Digital Transformation #Chiyoda #ITmedia #X THEME

Kickstarting Authentic Conversations with 'X THEME'

ITmedia, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has launched an exciting new web series titled 'X THEME'. This show invites key industry figures to candidly discuss pressing themes that professionals want to know more about. The inaugural episode, 'Successful Small Enterprises in DX - Leaders Who Changed the Scene', features three business leaders from small enterprises who successfully implemented digital transformation (DX) in their organizations. The premiere is scheduled for February 18, 2026, at 1 PM (free viewing).

What is 'X THEME'?

'X THEME' is hosted by MONOist, a media outlet dedicated to the manufacturing sector under ITmedia. Setting itself apart, the show does not follow the usual interview format; instead, it facilitates natural dialogue among participants. The intent is to allow their experiences and perspectives to intersect, revealing genuine insights and real-life complexities behind their decision-making processes.

This unique approach—free of scripted questions and governance—aims to unearth decision-making backgrounds, industry atmospheres, and potential future shifts through the authentic words of those directly involved. Because it is a web-based program, anyone can access it for free, transcending geographical boundaries.

The First Episode: Insights on DX for Small Enterprises

Focusing on the essential role of DX in enhancing the competitiveness of Japan's manufacturing industry, the first episode tackles the diverse challenges faced by small enterprises. Issues such as personnel shortages, investment constraints, and resistance to digitalization frequently hinder progress. Many may find themselves pondering the best approach to take a solid, actionable step forward.

The featured speakers include Hiroyoshi Konno, President of Konno Manufacturing; Hisayuki Nagamori, CEO and CIO of Nishisei Industries; and Yuko Tanaka, President of Tanaka Industries. They have all successfully driven growth in their businesses through practical DX initiatives reflecting a ground-up approach. The three leaders strongly emphasize that they did not pursue DX for its own sake. Instead, they faced urgent challenges such as labor shortages and task fragility. This crisis led them to accumulate efforts gradually, resulting in effective digital utilization today.

The discussions are filled with pragmatic hints for businesses seeking to take those much-needed steps forward, deviating from theoretical discussions of DX towards a more grounded and authentic perspective. This program promises to be invaluable not just for small manufacturing enterprises struggling with DX but also for executives at larger organizations pushing for digital advancements. Make sure to tune in!

Register to View!

Check out the preview video of the inaugural episode here.

Event Overview

Name: X THEME - Episode 1: 'Successful Small Enterprises in DX - Leaders Who Changed the Scene'
Date and Time: February 18, 2026, at 1 PM
Format: Online Broadcast
Hosted by: MONOist, TechLIVE by ITmedia
Participation Fee: Free
Target Audience: Executives and personnel from manufacturing, corporate planning, production departments, information systems, and sales sectors.

For further inquiries regarding this release, please contact:
ITmedia Inc. Public Relations
Email: [email protected]


About ITmedia Inc.: ITmedia Inc. is a leading internet media company specializing in IT, business, manufacturing, and consumer sectors. It operates a diverse range of media outlets including the inclusive information portal 'ITmedia', expert problem-solving media '@IT', manufacturing-focused portal 'MONOist', and trend-setter media 'Netorabo'. With a staggering 400 million page views and 60 million unique browsers monthly, ITmedia reaches a broad audience, delivering reliable and timely information to meet various consumer needs.

[Stock Code: 2148, Tokyo Stock Exchange]