#Japan #Tokyo #Kaminashi #Easy Japanese #Employee App

Kaminashi Enhances Employee Communication with Easy Japanese Feature

Kaminashi Co., Ltd., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has made a significant enhancement to its employee communication tool, the 'Kaminashi Employee App,' by adding an 'Easy Japanese' display feature. This innovative function is Japan's first of its kind for a business communication platform, designed to support foreign employees, such as technical interns and those on specified skill visas, in learning Japanese according to their proficiency levels. Users can select from their native language, 'Easy Japanese,' or standard Japanese, enabling a seamless transition to improved language skills while on the job.

Addressing Labor Shortages with Foreign Talent

As industries like manufacturing and services grapple with a severe labor shortage, foreign workers have become indispensable. However, a survey conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare revealed that communication barriers due to Japanese language proficiency have been the top concern for businesses employing foreign personnel for two consecutive years, with 43.9% of respondents reporting difficulties.

Many employers have shared specific challenges they face in communication:

• - A significant gap between understanding and actual capabilities, where foreign employees often respond affirmatively to directions despite not fully comprehending, leading to mistakes or rework.
• - Limited resources allocated for Japanese education, making it hard for employers to provide training opportunities that could enhance language proficiency, ultimately hindering effective communication.

With the upcoming implementation of the 'Training and Employment System' in April 2027, which mandates gradual improvements in Japanese language skills for foreign workers, it has become urgent for workplaces to foster environments where language learning can occur on the job.

Enhancing the 'Kaminashi Employee App'

In response to these challenges, Kaminashi has introduced the 'Easy Japanese' display in its employee communication tool to facilitate better communication and support the language learning journey of foreign workers. This feature allows users to select the language level that matches their proficiency, leading to steady learning opportunities during work hours.

How 'Easy Japanese' Works

Employees using 'Kaminashi Employee App' can now select 'Easy Japanese' in addition to 18 other languages within the language settings of the 'My Kaminashi' web application. Key features include:

• - Automatic simplification to JLPT N4 level: Complex vocabulary within messages is automatically adjusted to simpler expressions, making it easier for foreign employees to understand instructions.
• - Furigana on Kanji: Adding furigana helps prevent misreading and enhances vocabulary retention.

Benefits of the New Feature

The introduction of the 'Easy Japanese' feature allows for:

• - Tailored language settings according to Japanese proficiency. This enables foreign workers to choose their language as follows:

- Initially: Set to 'Native Language' to ensure clear understanding and minimize errors.
- Once acclimated: Switch to 'Easy Japanese' for practical learning through work.
- After mastering: Transition to regular 'Japanese' language settings to engage in equal communication with Japanese employees.

• - Greater clarity in intent when interpreting messages in their native language, minimizing misunderstandings caused by specialized terms and unique expressions in the workplace. By looking at the message in 'Easy Japanese,' employees can verify and understand the true intent behind the communication.

Conclusion

Kaminashi is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where foreign employees can thrive while learning the Japanese language. By using the 'Kaminashi Employee App,' companies can enhance workplace communication, boost productivity, and create an atmosphere where everyone’s abilities can shine, including support for elderly workers and those with disabilities. The subscription-based service aims to streamline communications while overcoming language barriers, facilitating smoother exchanges between all employees.

For more details on the 'Kaminashi Employee App,' visit: Kaminashi Employee App

About Kaminashi

• - Company Name: Kaminashi Co., Ltd.
• - Location: 3-7 Kanda Kaji-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Hiroto Moroaka
• - Established: December 2016
• - Business: Development and provision of the onsite DX platform 'Kaminashi' series.
• - Official Site: Kaminashi Corporate