Can Japan's IT Reclaim Position It Deserves? : TRON's Sakamura Speaks

While leading the world in mobile internet, Japan is dragging behind in information technology. A bit paradoxical but can Japan get back to claim the position it deserves? Here, according to Nikkei Shimbun, Professor Takeshi Sakamoto of Tokyo University, the legendary developer of the basic software (OS) TRON expounds his views on information technology in Japan.

Asked how he evaluates Japan's information technology, Professor Sakamura said:

"Well, it's not that we don't have the power. We do. TRON has nearly 50% share in the world as a built-in OS. Japan contributes most in the standard formulation for the 5th generation portable communications. We are capable of producing semiconductors."

"We have sufficient technology, but that doesn't mean we are good in running the business. When it comes to the power to disseminate technology, the power to apply technology on industry, we are hardly leading the world".

"The problem is", continues Professor Sakamura, "Japan is not shaped up to apply the new straight to society". He further elaborates:
"Take our legislative system, for instance. Put in a nutshell, American laws stipulate for what should not be done, while Japanese laws tell you what you may do."

"So, in the United States, the moment it was released to the public the internet was put to all sorts of uses, be it election campaign or otherwise. In Japan, the Public Officers Election Act superseded the internet. Japan cannot effectively respond to turning points."

Asked what should be done, Professor Sakamura commented:

"The most important point is how to change the people's way of thinking. Mobile devices and basic software are all US-owned. To construct a broad service network we have to have a concept, an idea broad enough to link up the whole world."

"In  a number of countries of the world, they have begun teaching programming in junior high level to develop human resources to meet the next IT revolution. Our youngsters learn programming at college. Much too late, I'm afraid".