Good morning from Tokyo! The sun rose over an hour ago, but I couldn't see it due to the tall building in front of my hotel. It's already 7 a.m., and the temperature has climbed to 28°C (82°F). It's September 18, and Tokyo, like much of Japan, has been experiencing extremely hot weather.

 

 

 

The Tokyo subway is one of the most efficient in the world, operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway with 13 lines. It’s known for punctuality, frequent trains, cleanliness, and easy transfers. Though crowded during rush hours, it remains reliable and tourist-friendly with English signage and IC card payments (Suica/Pasmo). An essential part of Tokyo’s daily life!

 

 

 

I'm staying at remm Kyobashi, a new hotel near JR Tokyo Station. I’ve never stayed at this hotel before, but it’s very close to the station. The hotel looks very new and clean. I’ll be staying for two nights, and then I’ll be traveling to Narita. There are a few options to get to Narita Airport from Tokyo, mainly by bus or rail.

 

 

 

To spending a few days With my parents, I am now heading back to Tokyo the last few days of work before I head back to Seattle. I would avoid coming to Japan in the summer to avoid heat.

 

 

 

Those are the restaurants that you find at Ashiya Station building. What would you choose?

 

 

 

At my company, we base our services on a subscription model. In the software development industry, the common business model is based on contracts, where software is developed according to the customer's specific needs, and a set amount is paid. While contract-based businesses allow for highly detailed services that fully meet the customer’s requirements, it also means that the developed software belongs to the customer. Additionally, the software tends to have limited versatility, making development costs higher.

However, by developing software for subscription use, it can be utilized by multiple customers, which significantly reduces the unit cost. Another major advantage of the subscription model is the ability to secure a stable stream of revenue. In contract development, once a project is completed, the revenue stream stops. There are no earnings until the next project is secured, leading to a lack of stability. With the subscription model, revenue is generated regularly, usually monthly or annually, allowing for more long-term business planning.

Moreover, through a subscription service, we can continuously build relationships with customers, enhancing satisfaction through ongoing improvements and new features. This helps us continuously provide value to our customers, reducing churn rates.

Of course, to successfully offer services under a subscription model, efforts to maintain high service quality and strengthen support systems are necessary to ensure customer satisfaction. In return, it provides the potential to build a stable business foundation.

At PSPINC, we are focused on developing systems that can be offered as subscriptions in partnership with our customers. Rather than simply delivering software, we collaborate with our customers as partners in long-term business growth. Through this approach, we aim to build services and systems that customers can continuously utilize, contributing to their business development.

Specifically, by carefully understanding the customer’s workflow and needs, we build systems that improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. This allows customers to leverage the latest features and technologies while keeping initial investments low, and as their business grows, they can scale the system accordingly.

Furthermore, the subscription model includes regular software updates and maintenance, ensuring that the system remains optimized. Our support team also responds swiftly to any issues, allowing customers to use our services with peace of mind.

At PSPINC, we are fully committed to providing ongoing value through strong partnerships with our customers. By doing so, we strive to build long-term and stable business relationships, working together to achieve mutual success.

 

It's another whole day in Tokyo and I spend time at the coffee shop drinking ice coffee. Would you take iced coffee without cream with cream?

 

 

 

When you're riding the crowded train Japan, it is customary to wear your backpack in the front to avoid hitting people in the back. There are many customs like this to avoid possible conflict.

 

 

 

I recently met with a company that produces secure private offices for home use. These offices offer features such as entry and exit monitoring, along with noise isolation. The startup is looking to expand its market into the United States and has asked us to evaluate the potential. I believe with a few minor adjustments, there could be a strong market for this product in the U.S. Without knowing too much about it, what are your thoughts on this idea? If we were to promote it in the U.S., do you think it would have market potential?

 

Here is wha I think.

 

 

 

 

I had Paella at the restaurant near business meeting this afternoon. It was a complete lunch with salada and a roll, plus Paella and iced tea. All this for 1,480yen that is less than US$10. There is tipping either. Nice!