Shinichiro Ikeda, CEO of Studio Deen, The study that has left us jewelry as “Urusei Yatsura”, “Konosuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!”, And “Rurouni Kenshin”, is revolutionizing the way in which it works in the world of anime. Instead of continuing with the endless working days that have been the standard in the industry, they have decided to bet on a healthier approach, even if that involves financial losses at the beginning.
In a recent interview, Ikeda told how he ran into the hard reality of the study when he acquired it with IMA Group: «When I asked what time I had to go to the studio to see how everything worked, the previous owner told me: 'How about 1 and 3 in the morning? It is when the most talented people are at their best. ' At that time I knew that I had to change that mentality».
So his first great decision was to establish a more human work schedule, leaving at 6 in the afternoon, something that in the anime industry is almost unthinkable. But when he proposed this, executives went on him: «They told us that it was impossible, that if they did not work until dawn they would not comply with the deadlines and the study would break. But if a business is only profitable exploiting people, then there is something wrong».
Obviously, reducing working hours had an impact on sales. For two or three years, Studio Deen's income went down. But Ikeda trusted that this change was worth it and that, in the long run, employees would be more efficient: «If you work from 9 am to 11 pm, it is obvious that you go to dose your energy and work halfway in the morning. But if you know you'll go at 7 pm, you will take advantage of your time».
And he was right. After a few years, income began to rise again, and people worked better. In the end, it turned out that it was not necessary to destroy health to make good anime. In addition to improving working conditions, Ikeda has also decided not to interfere with the creative part of the study. Unlike other managers who put their ideas even if they have no idea, he prefers to let experts do their job.
«I have seen companies fall because the presidents are surrounded by flatterers and believe they have the best ideas. I decided more than 20 years ago not to get into creative planning. At first, the employees were nervous, but then they realized that they worked better without pressure»He said.
Studio Deen turns 50 in 2025, and Ikeda is already thinking about how to celebrate it: «It is a great achievement to reach 50 years, so I want to do something special». At the end of the day, Ikeda's strategy has shown that it is not necessary to work until exhaustion to be successful. With a more human approach, Studio Deen is preparing to continue leaving a mark on the anime industry, but this time without sacrificing the life of his employees in the process.
Fountain: Comic Natalie
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(Tagstotranslate) Studio-deen
