Studio Ghibli 2021

Abstract

The legendary Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli is facing, in 2021, the loss of its most famous and prolific director Hayao Miyazaki. As he comes near his end there are worries that the company might not be strong enough on its own to survive this loss, that it might lose its identity. The reader will be encouraged to think about three main elements. Studio Ghibli is a good example of a company with a strong work culture. It should make it easier for students to think about what organizational identity is and what Studio Ghibli identity is. Who are they? What are they doing? How are they doing it? This point focus on the internal organizational culture, how the company define itself and the experience of its members. This identity is in relation with an external context. What stakeholders such as consumers want and believe in connects with the organizational identity. It creates the organizational reputation and is a key factor in the success of the company. Lastly, the combination of both the culture and the image creates the organizational identity. But in the event of Miyazaki retirement or passing Ghibli would lose the core of both its internal culture and external image. This is a survival threat for the company and will require students to find solutions. This case starts with an overview of Studio Ghibli’s history to help the reader understand how the company is managed and grew overtime. Then the case focuses on the business side of Studio Ghibli and the influence of its identity even on the business model. To conclude the case concerns are raised about the company leadership and management but also on its attempts at preparing a succession. These problems are brought to counterbalance the seemingly complete success presented in the case.

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