When compared with current operational procedure, the implementation of the joint development (JD) system in the early days differed to some degree and was somewhat immature. Having neither examples nor experience implementation of the JD program was particularly difficult in the initial stage. However, continuous learning and hard working has laid a good foundation and has made today’s large-scale work scope and achievements possible. This article gives a brief description of the system and planning of the early JD program by way of chronicling important events such as the introduction of JD, the constitution of related laws and regulations, operation procedures, etc., with the hope of creating a wider scope for the JD program and providing new thinking with a more expansive vision.