This study investigated the kinds of training conducted in Japanese companies and the degree to which instructional systems design (ISD) is implemented. A random sample of 12 Japanese companies in the banking, automobile manufacturing, electrical machinery, wholesale stores, insurance and securities, and transportation industries were surveyed; a response rate of 37.5% was obtained. Data were collected on the relative frequency of off-the-job and on-the-job training for several training objectives; methods used for technical and interpersonal skills; where training programs are developed (i.e., in-house or outside the company); who develops and delivers training; use of ISD models; procedures for determining training needs and content; how training is evaluated; and approach to improving training effectiveness. Results indicated that the majority of the companies use a general systems approach to problem solving with some similarity to the ISD model. Differences between U.S. and Japanese corporations in terms of organizational structure and implications for the introduction of ISD are discussed. (MES)