Management and management techniques Books

Book SynopsisThe classic book on systems thinking, with more than half a million copies sold worldwide! This is a fabulous book. This book opened my mind and reshaped the way I think about investing. Forbes Perfect for fans of Kate Raworth, Rutger Bregman and Daniel Kahneman! The co-author of the international best-selling book Limits to Growth, Donella Meadows is widely regarded as a pioneer in the environmental movement and one of the world's foremost systems analysts . Her posthumously published Thinking in Systems, is a concise and crucial book offering insight for problem solving on scales ranging from the personal to the global. This essential primer brings systems thinking out of the realm of computers and equations and into the tangible world, showing readers how to develop the systems-thinking skills critical for 21st-century life. Some of the biggest problems facing the world―war, hunger, poverty, and environmental degradation―are essentially system failures. They cannot be solved by fixing one piece in isolation from the others, because even seemingly minor details have enormous impact. While readers will learn the conceptual tools and methods of systems thinking, the heart of the book is grander than methodology. Donella Meadows reminds readers to pay attention to what is important, not just what is quantifiable, to stay humble, and to stay a learner. No matter what industry or career you’re in, Thinking In Systems will bring clarity to the complicated, crowded and interdependent networks that make up the world today. Thinking in Systems helps readers avoid confusion and helplessness, the first step toward finding proactive and effective solutions.Trade ReviewPublishers Weekly, Starred Review- Just before her death, scientist, farmer and leading environmentalist Meadows (1941-2001) completed an updated, 30th anniversary edition of her influential 1972 environmental call to action, Limits to Growth, as well as a draft of this book, in which she explains the methodology-systems analysis-she used in her ground-breaking work, and how it can be implemented for large-scale and individual problem solving. With humorous and commonplace examples for difficult concepts such as a "reinforcing feedback loop," (the more one brother pushes, the more the other brother pushes back), negative feedback (as in thermostats), accounting for delayed response (like in maintaining store inventory), Meadows leads readers through the increasingly complex ways that feedback loops operate to create self-organizing systems, in nature ("from viruses to redwood trees") and human endeavor. Further, Meadows explicates methods for fixing systems that have gone haywire ("The world's leaders are correctly fixated on economic growth ...but they're pushing with all their might in the wrong direction"). An invaluable companion piece to Limits to Growth, this is also a useful standalone overview of systems-based problem solving, "a simple book about a complex world" graced by the wisdom of a profound thinker committed to "shaping a better future."When I read Thinking in Systems I am reminded of the enormity of the gap between systemic thinkers and policy makers. If this book helps narrow the gap, it will be Dana's greatest contribution."--Lester Brown, founder and President, Earth Policy Institute"Dana Meadows' exposition in this book exhibits a degree of clarity and simplicity that can only be attained by one who profoundly and honestly understands the subject at hand--in this case systems modeling. Many thanks to Diana Wright for bringing this extra legacy from Dana to us."--Herman Daly, Professor, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland at College Park"Reading Thinking in Systems evokes the wisdom and even the voice of Dana Meadows. We are reminded of how she was not only one of the great systems thinkers, but also one of our greatest teachers. This is modestly called a primer, and indeed it is, but unlike most books with that title, this one quickly takes one from the elementary into deep systems thinking about issues as critical today as they were when Dana wrote these words. The discussion of oil use and the interaction of its extraction pattern with economic decision making should be required reading for all energy policy makers and energy company executives (as well as all informed citizens in a democracy). The fisheries case reminds us of how little any government or private actor has done to grasp the importance of takeout flows in determining stocks when the input flows are not within our control. The commentary on economics and, yes the need to consider limits, is a clear systems statement that clarifies a great deal of discussion that goes back to The Limits to Growth. It is remarkable that Dana is able to explain with such clarity such systems concepts of stocks, flows, feedback, time delays, resilience, bounded rationality, and system boundaries and to illustrate each one with multiple informative examples. Her statement that goals that optimize subsystems will sub optimize the functioning of the total system, is truly profound. As the book moves from the 'mechanics' of systems dynamics to Dana's more philosophical perspective, we are treated to her inherent belief in human values that consider the good of all, and how much more effective considering the needs of others is likely to be in solving larger, complex problems. The universe and our society may be very complex and operate in counterintuitive, non-liner fashion, but following the insights of this book and applying them will provide for far more effective solutions to the challenges of a 7 billion person planet than current incremental, linear responses by governments, corporations and individuals."--Bill Moomaw, Professor of International Environmental Policy at the Fletcher School, Tufts University"In Dana Meadows's brilliantly integrative worldview, everything causes everything else; cause and effect loop back on themselves. She was the clearest thinker and writer co-creating the art and science of systems dynamics, and Thinking in Systems distills her lifetime of wisdom. This clear, fun-to-read synthesis will help diverse readers everywhere to grasp and harness how our complex world really works."--Amory B. Lovins, Chairman and Chief Scientist, Rocky Mountain Institute"Dana Meadows taught a generation of students, friends, and colleagues the art and science of thinking beyond conventional boundaries. For her systems thinking included the expected things like recognizing patterns, connections, leverage points, feedback loops and also the human qualities of judgment, foresight, and kindness. She was a teacher with insight and heart. This long anticipated book, the distillation of her life's work, is a gem."--David Orr, Professor of Environmental Studies and Politics, Oberlin College"The publication of Thinking in Systems is a landmark. To live sustainably on our planet, we must learn to understand human-environment interactions as complex systems marked by the impact of human actions, the prominence of nonlinear change, the importance of initial conditions, and the significance of emergent properties. Dana Meadows' final contribution is the best and most accessible introduction to this way of thinking we have. This book is destined to shape our understanding of socio-ecological systems in the years to come in much the same way that Silent Spring taught us to understand the nature of ecosystems in the 1960s and 1970s."--Oran R. Young, Professor, Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management at University of California, Santa Barbara"Thinking in Systems is required reading for anyone hoping to run a successful company, community, or country. Learning how to think in systems is now part of change-agent literacy. And this is the best book of its kind."--Hunter Lovins, founder and President of Natural Capital Solutions and coauthor of Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution"Dana Meadows was one of the smartest people I ever knew, able to figure out the sensible answer to almost any problem. This book explains how she thought, and hence is of immense value to those of us who often wonder what she'd make of some new problem. A classic."--Bill McKibben, author of Deep Economy"An inspiring sequel to Dana Meadows' lifetime of seminal contributions to systems thinking, this highly accessible book should be read by everyone concerned with the world's future and how we can make it as good as it possibly can be."--Peter H. Raven, President, Missouri Botanical Garden"Few matched Dana Meadows remarkable blend of eloquence and clarity in making systems thinking understandable. When Dana began her career, the field was esoteric and academic. Today it is the sine quo non for intelligent action in business and society. The publication of Meadows' previously unfinished manuscript is a gift for leaders of all sorts and at all levels."--Peter M. Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline and The Necessary Revolution

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Book SynopsisBarbara Minto holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School. Her course reflects insights drawn from more than 30 years of conducting courses worldwide at major consulting firms and corporations. The phrase Take this and make it Minto is common in many of these organizations and the Minto Pyramid Principle is considered the lingua franca' for serious-minded professionals, especially those who want to be listened to and earnestly wish to advance their careers.  Table of ContentsPreface Intro to Part I - The Minto Pyramid Principle: Logic in Writing PART 1 THE PYRAMID PRINCIPLE: LOGIC IN WRITING 1. Why a pyramid structure 2. The substructures within the pyramid 3. How to build a pyramid structure 4. Fine points of introductions 5. Deduction and induction: the difference 6. How to highlight the structure Intro to Part 2 - The Minto Pyramid Principle: Logic in Thinking PART 2 THE PYRAMID PRINCIPLE: LOGIC IN THINKING 7. Questioning the order of a grouping 8. Questioning the problem-solving process 9. Questioning the summary statement 10. Putting it into readable words Appendix: Problem Solving in Structureless Situations

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Book SynopsisIn the new remote-first and hybrid workplace, many organizations are struggling to catch up with new tooling and ways of working. Many are discovering for the first time that the physical office was covering up poorly defined teams and poorly defined areas of focus, threatening their DevOps transformation efforts and the overall health and success of their business. Matthew Skelton and Manuel Pais, coauthors of the highly successful Team Topologies, provide proven patterns for a successful remote-first approach to teams. Using simple tools for dependency tracking and patterns from Team Topologies, such as the Team API, organizations will find that well-defined team interactions are key to effective IT delivery in the remote-first world.This workbook explores several aspects of team-first remote work, including: How the new “remote-first” world is highlighting existing poor team interactions within organizations. Why organizations should use the Team API pattern to define and communicate the focus of teams. How organizations can track and remove team-level dependencies. How and why organizations should design inter-team communications consciously. How and why organizations can use the three team interaction modes from Team Topologies (collaboration, x-as-a-service, and facilitating) to help. The ideas and patterns presented here will help your organization become more effective with a team-based, remote-first approach to building and running software systems.

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Book Synopsis"David Stroh has produced an elegant and cogent guide to what works. Research with early learners is showing that children are natural systems thinkers. This book will help to resuscitate these intuitive capabilities and strengthen them in the fire of facing our toughest problems."—Peter Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline Concrete guidance on how to incorporate systems thinking in problem solving, decision making, and strategic planning—for everyone! Donors, leaders of nonprofits, and public policy makers usually have the best of intentions to serve society and improve social conditions. But often their solutions fall far short of what they want to accomplish and what is truly needed. Moreover, the answers they propose and fund often produce the opposite of what they want over time. We end up with temporary shelters that increase homelessness, drug busts that increase drug-related crime, or food aid that increases starvation. How do these unintended consequences come about and how can we avoid them? By applying conventional thinking to complex social problems, we often perpetuate the very problems we try so hard to solve, but it is possible to think differently, and get different results. Systems Thinking for Social Change enables readers to contribute more effectively to society by helping them understand what systems thinking is and why it is so important in their work. It also gives concrete guidance on how to incorporate systems thinking in problem solving, decision making, and strategic planning without becoming a technical expert. Systems thinking leader David Stroh walks readers through techniques he has used to help people improve their efforts on complex problems like: ending homelessness improving public health strengthening education designing a system for early childhood development protecting child welfare developing rural economies facilitating the reentry of formerly incarcerated people into society resolving identity-based conflicts and more! The result is a highly readable, effective guide to understanding systems and using that knowledge to get the results you want. Trade Review “I don't know of another book in this field that presents the ideas of systems thinking in such a clear and practical way, with so many real-world examples."--Janice Molloy, managing editor, Reflections: The SoL NorthAmerica Journal on Knowledge, Learning, and ChangePublishers Weekly- "This dense volume will be of genuine use to many in the nonprofit world ... Stroh has a valuable insight to impart: Becoming a more effective systems thinker is not just an analytical task 'but also an emotional, physical, and ultimately spiritual one.' For those dedicated enough to stay with Stroh's message, this book will be a useful beginning.”“Stroh has offered an important gem in his new book, Systems Thinking for Social Change. Both illuminating and immediately useful, the book shares the key dynamics and success factors gleaned from his long career of working with organizations struggling with society’s most persistent issues. A must read for anyone whose aim is to make a difference on the ground.”--Kristina Wile, co-president, Leverage Networks, and managing partner, Systems Thinking Collaborative“If there is only one book you read on systems thinking, it should be Systems Thinking for Social Change. If you’re new to systems thinking, I consider this a must read. If you’ve been involved in systems thinking for some time and want a renewed and extended perspective, I highly recommend it. Stroh’s new work covers all the relevant areas appropriate for a solid introduction to systems thinking, though it doesn’t stop there. It makes a serious contribution by detailing a number of real-world situations that have been investigated and improved using the approach presented in the book. And it does very well something that I’ve not seen done before: it not only shows how to map the current system, but also shows how to then create a revised map of how the system is intended to work in the future. This approach ends up identifying where measurements should be made on an ongoing basis to ascertain whether the system is undergoing the intended transformation.”--Gene Bellinger, director, Systems Thinking World, Inc.“The philanthropic sector has shifted from a ‘charity’ mindset to a focus on changing systems to create sustainable change. Systems Thinking for Social Change offers practical tools for those serious about improving communities and organizations. It doesn’t minimize the complexity, but rather empowers social-change agents with tools to understand the complexity and identify the leverage points.”--Teresa Behrens, director, Institute for Foundation and Donor Learning“Over fifteen years ago, David Stroh was instrumental in introducing systems thinking to the peace-building field, using tools that have proven to be powerful for improving the effectiveness of our work. This book is a valuable resource for our field — a must read for all practitioners who have been seeking practical and easy-to-understand guidance on using systems thinking for conflict analysis and strategic planning for better impacts.”--Diana Chigas, professor of practice, Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, and co-director of collaborative learning, CDA Collaborative Learning Projects“This is a must read for public leaders and citizens who are interested in the learning disciplines required for a sustainable, proactive approach to preserving our shared resources.”--Georgianna Bishop, president, The Public Sector Consortium“For those who have worked for many years in the social-service sector, and who have grown cynical or disillusioned as to whether it is even possible to effect major social change, David Peter Stroh’s book, Systems Thinking for Social Change, is a must read—a clear, thoughtful, and practical guide for those desiring to create lasting social change. But reader beware! Systems thinking is more than a new way of thinking. As Stroh puts it, it is a new way of being. It requires the ability to look at things in a new way, to interact with others differently, to have a clear vision of where you want to go, a willingness to see things the way they are and, finally, the courage to take responsibility for why the system as is isn’t working. If you want to help create long-lasting, effective social change, if you want to say ‘we’re doing it—we’re actually making progress,’ then read this book.”--Anne Miskey, executive director, Funders Together to End Homelessness“David Stroh, in his invaluable new book, shows that good intentions are not enough for those who aspire to make lasting progress on fundamental social issues—and also how the language and tools of systems theory can provide a deeper understanding of the root causes and help identify the leverage points for productive and sustainable change.”--Russell Eisenstat, executive director, Center for Higher Ambition Leadership“Societal problems are a swirl of causes, effects, interactions, and contributing relationships. Yet, too often, simplistic answers are applied by the well-intended that only touch on one strand of what is (in reality) a complex and interconnected web. Stroh’s work provides an actionable guide on how to model these relationships—and more importantly how to have a meaningful and lasting impact on them.”--Jason E. Glass, superintendent and chief learner, Eagle County Schools "With this book Stroh has produced an essential —and long overdue—guide to applied systems thinking. A few well-selected examples of initiatives that turned from ‘working’ to ‘transformative' lay the foundation for how change makers can address chronic, complex social problems and deepen their impact. After helping the reader recognize what might be holding their interventions back, the book moves with ease into ways of finding leverage, the use of systems stories, and the power of visioning. In Stroh’s capable hands, systems thinking becomes a tool for defining personal or organizational priorities, for planning, and for evaluating success through measurable indicators. But the book is much more than a formidable toolbox from which to draw on a daily basis. It is, at its deeper level, a warm invitation to cultivate systems thinking as 'a way of being, not just doing' so that on the way to long-lasting, desirable outcomes, change makers can become more and more the change they want to see."--Marta Ceroni, executive director, Donella Meadows Institute“As philanthropic organizations increasingly seek to strengthen their impact, the perspectives, methods, and tools described in Stroh’s book provide us with critical guidance for thinking and action to address complex social problems and for building ‘all-in’ approaches to problem solving. Anyone in government, nonprofits, or philanthropy can benefit from this approach to solutions. And while it might take a lifetime to master the use of systems thinking for social change, reorienting how we think about problems in this way can immediately set us on a new path toward sustainability and greater likelihood of success.”--Lexi Nolen, vice president, Episcopal Health Foundation“It is not hard for people to appreciate that fragmented, piecemeal efforts to solve complex problems are ineffective. But having concrete approaches to an alternative is another matter. After almost four decades of applying practical systems-thinking tools in diverse settings, David Stroh has produced an elegant and cogent guide to what works. Research with early learners is showing that children are natural systems thinkers. This book will help to resuscitate these intuitive capabilities and strengthen them in the fire of facing our toughest problems.”--Peter Senge, senior lecturer, MIT, and author of The Fifth Discipline "Systems Thinking for Social Change uses clear, down-to-earth language to explain and illustrate systems thinking, why it matters, and how it can lead to greater success in the social sector. The book is brief yet deep, big picture yet rigorously analytical. Stroh displays considerable narrative skill, especially when he shares numerous stories from his practice of applying various systems tools that led groups to new and startling conclusions. Reading this book will test the reader substantially, as the author invites us to a deeper level of introspection about our own role in systems failures of every kind—organizational and societal—and gently asks us to embrace a new way, not merely of thinking but of being in the world. A remarkable book."--David Nee, Growth Philanthropy Network; and former executive director, William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund"Drawing on a deep well of experience, Stroh masterfully weaves metaphor, story, and practical tools, modeling for us all effective systems thinking in action. Read it and get ready to take your game up a notch."--Linda Booth Sweeney, author of Connected Wisdom, and coauthor of the The Systems Thinking Playbook“Systems thinking quickly gets very abstract and technical, often underplaying the social and storytelling dimensions. For a long time I’ve been looking for a more practical, readable, and engaging introductory book for my classes. Now, finally, here it is!”--Per Espen Stoknes, author, What We Think About When We Try Not To Think About Global Warming, and senior lecturer at BI Norwegian Business School“David Peter Stroh has been a pioneer in the effort to bring principles of systems into the service of those striving for constructive social change. (I took a course from him over thirty years ago.) Many books tell you how to engage in systems thinking but not how to apply it. This is a very useful exception. Peter draws on many years of professional engagement with the important problems of our society. Of course reading his book won’t let you banish all those problems. But it will help you focus your effort where you can have the best impact, and it will show you how to enlist others in the effort.”--Dennis Meadows, coauthor, Limits to Growth, and former director, Institute for Policy and Social Science Research

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Book SynopsisLean Thinking was launched in the fall of 1996, just in time for the recession of 1997. It told the story of how American, European, and Japanese firms applied a simple set of principles called ''lean thinking'' to survive the recession of 1991 and grow steadily in sales and profits through 1996. Even though the recession of 1997 never happened, companies were starving for information on how to make themselves leaner and more efficient. Now we are dealing with the recession of 2001 and the financial meltdown of 2002. So what happened to the exemplar firms profiled in Lean Thinking? In the new fully revised edition of this bestselling book those pioneering lean thinkers are brought up to date. Authors James Womack and Daniel Jones offer new guidelines for lean thinking firms and bring their groundbreaking practices to a brand new generation of companies that are looking to stay one step ahead of the competition.

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPreface to the Second Edition ix 1. Making Complexity Work 1 2. Moral Purpose 19 3. Nuance: Understanding Change 41 4. Relationships, Relationships, Relationships 63 5. Knowledge Building and Deep Learning 91 6. Coherence Making 117 7. Leadership for Change 135 References 155 About the Author 163 Acknowledgments 165 Index 167

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Book SynopsisThe dangerous work of leading change--somebody has to do it. Will you put yourself on the line?To lead is to live dangerously. It's romantic and exciting to think of leadership as all inspiration, decisive action, and rich rewards, but leading requires taking risks that can jeopardize your career and your personal life. It requires putting yourself on the line, disrupting the status quo, and surfacing hidden conflict. And when people resist and push back, there's a strong temptation to play it safe. Those who choose to lead plunge in, take the risks, and sometimes get burned. But it doesn't have to be that way say renowned leadership experts Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky. In Leadership on the Line, they show how it's possible to make a difference without getting "taken out" or pushed aside. They present everyday tools that give equal weight to the dangerous work of leading change and the critical importance of personal survival. Through vivid stories from all walks of life, the authors present straightforward strategies for navigating the perilous straits of leadership. Whether you're a parent or a politician, a CEO or a community activist, this practical book shows how you can exercise leadership and survive and thrive to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

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Book SynopsisHi there, it''s Michael, the author. You might know my previous book, The Coaching Habit. It was an unexpected bestseller: more than 700,000 copies sold so far, 1,000+ 5-star reviews on Amazon (my favourite: I have plodded through many books that wish they could be this book), a Wall Street Journal bestseller, and used by people and organizations around the world.So I''ve been sweating on the follow-up. The pressure! The anticipation! But here it is, and I think you''re going to like it. If The Coaching Habit says, here are the seven essential questions to be more coach-like, The Advice Trap is about getting to grips with how to actually change your behaviour so you stay curious a little bit longer.It sounds like it should be easy, but it''s not. You have to tame your Advice Monster, that part of you that jumps in to offer up ideas, opinions, suggestions and advice. And it''s taming your Advice Monster that''s at the heart of this book. But there

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Book SynopsisWhat do you want to be when you grow up? It''s a familiar question we''re all asked as kids. While seemingly harmless, the question has unintended consequences. It can make you feel like you need to choose one job, one passion, one thing to be about. Guess what? You don''t. Having a lot of different interests, projects and curiosities doesn''t make you a jack-of-all-trades, master of none. Your endless curiosity doesn''t mean you are broken or flaky. What you are is a multipotentialite: someone with many interests and creative pursuits. And that is actually your biggest strength.How to Be Everything helps you channel your diverse passions and skills to work for you. Based on her popular TED talk, Why some of us don''t have one true calling, Emilie Wapnick flips the script on conventional career advice. Instead of suggesting that you specialize, choose a niche or accumulate 10,000 hours of practice in a single area, Wapnick provides a practical framewoTrade Review“Feel-good, encouraging advice on distilling a variety of passions and interests into success. This book is chock full of great exercises and practical advice and we highly recommend picking up a copy. ” — Forbes “We are all unique, so why does there only seem to be one path towards success? How to Be Everything throws out this one-size-fits-all approach and explains how to make our diverse skills sets work for us. — Todd Rose, Harvard University scientist, co-founder and president of the Center for Individual Opportunity, and author of The End of Average “Emilie brings hope, tools, inspiration and affirmation to the most misunderstood and undervalued segment of our society: multipotentialites. I raise my fist in solidarity, and celebrate this groundbreaking book!” — Pamela Slim, author of Body of Work and Escape from Cubicle Nation “If you’ve struggled finding your place in a world that rewards conformity, you know that choosing a single profession isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. You’re no longer alone—Emilie’s HOW TO BE EVERYTHING is a beautiful guide with practical tools to help you find your way without losing yourself.” — Chris Guillebeau, New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness of Pursuit and The $100 Startup How to be Everything helps you understand and process your diverse skills so you don’t have to sacrifice your potential. This book will help you fulfill your biggest dreams; all of them! — Buzzfeed “If you still don’t know what you’re doing with your life, Emilie Wapnick’s new book will make you feel better.” — Bustle “How to Be Everything is an empowering guide...This book is for the kind of people who can’t choose just one path because they aspire to be Art Directors + Restaurant Owners + Teachers + Best-Selling Authors + more all in this lifetime” — Darla Magazine

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Book SynopsisJim Collins is author or co-author of six books that have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide, including the bestsellers Good to Great, Built to Last, and How the Mighty Fall. Jim began his research and teaching career on the faculty at Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he received the Distinguished Teaching Award in 1992. He now operates a management laboratory in Boulder, Colorado, where he conducts research, teaches, and consults with executives from the corporate and social sectors.More about Jim and his works can be found at his e-teaching site, where he has assembled articles, audio clips, a recommended reading list, discussion guide, tools, and other information. The site is designed to be a place for students to study and learn: www.jimcollins.comTrade Review...the biggest selling and most influential management book of the new millennium. * Financial Times *...seminal... * The Times *...a must-read... * Management Today *Peppered with dozens of stories and examples from the great and not-so-great, Collins lays a well-reasoned roadmap to excellence that any organisation would do well to consider. Like Built to Last, Good to Great is one of those books that managers and CEOs will be reading and rereading for years to come. * Amazon.co.uk Review *in this category (management books) there is nothing to touch Jim Collins... It is essential reading. * Sunday Times Business Books of the Year *Table of ContentsGood is the enemy of great; level 5 leadership; first who - then what; confront the brutal facts (yet never lose faith); hedgehog concept; a culture of discipline; technology accelerators; the flywheel and the doom loop; from good to great to built to last.

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Book SynopsisA Washington Post Bestseller Three Principles for Managing--and Avoiding--the Problems of Growth Why is profitable growth so hard to achieve and sustain? Most executives manage their companies as if the solution to that problem lies in the external environment: find an attractive market, formulate the right strategy, win new customers. But when Bain & Company's Chris Zook and James Allen, authors of the bestselling Profit from the Core, researched this question, they found that when companies fail to achieve their growth targets, 90 percent of the time the root causes are internal, not external--increasing distance from the front lines, loss of accountability, proliferating processes and bureaucracy, to name only a few. What's more, companies experience a set of predictable internal crises, at predictable stages, as they grow. Even for healthy companies, these crises, if not managed properly, stifle the ability to grow further--and can actively lead to decline. The key insight from Zook and Allen's research is that managing these choke points requires a "founder's mentality"--behaviors typically embodied by a bold, ambitious founder--to restore speed, focus, and connection to customers: * An insurgent's clear mission and purpose * An unambiguous owner mindset * A relentless obsession with the front line Based on the authors' decade-long study of companies in more than forty countries, The Founder's Mentality demonstrates the strong relationship between these three traits in companies of all kinds--not just start-ups--and their ability to sustain performance. Through rich analysis and inspiring examples, this book shows how any leader--not only a founder--can instill and leverage a founder's mentality throughout their organization and find lasting, profitable growth.Trade Review"While speed, innovation, big data, and disruption are the business buzzwords of the day, the best books of 2016 argue for a more considered and considerate, human-centered, inclusive, and deliberately constructive approach to business. Change is in the air and technology is on the rise, but business is still a human pursuit, and should be humane. In a media climate dominated by Twitterstorms and sound bites, it is important to dive deeper into the issues and inform ourselves more fully before taking action. These books help do that." -- Editorial Director Dylan Schleicher on the 800-CEO-READ 2016 Business Book of the Year Longlist, which includes THE FOUNDER'S MENTALITY "As a founder myself, I get it. I care about my company so much. I understand what it means to have a founder around. ... I think your book is so interesting, so right on." -- J.J. Abrams, MSNBC's "Your Business" "In a good book, I look for people who have made a ton of mistakes, so I can learn from them. One of the observations in The Founder's Mentality [by Chris Zook and James Allen] is that founder-led companies in general perform better on the stock market." -- Chieh Huang, cofounder and CEO of Boxed on what he reads at 30,000 feet, as seen in Forbes "Chris Zook and James Allen have done a fine job of putting this theory into words. Their book, The Founder's Mentality is the product of a lot of research, and thousands of hours of experience by these two senior Bain partners." -- Management Today, UK "Fascinating and worth noting." -- Amanda Lang, Bloomberg GO "If your company isn't soaring as anticipated, look inside not out. Chances are your problems aren't due to market forces but rather issues such as a distancing from core principles, becoming deaf to your consumer's voice and sometimes a founder not empowering his people. These are some of the insights gleaned from The Founder's Mentality." -- USA Today "Summer is here, and everyone needs a business book or two to read. I'm recommending The Founder's Mentality: How to Overcome the Predictable Crises of Growth by two very senior partners and strategy practice heads at Bain & Company--Chris Zook and James Allen. -- Forbes.com "Excellent ... Zook and Allen's book focuses on how to manage the following dilemma: How can we manage growth without destroying what made us great? ...The Founder's Mentality causes us to appreciate the brilliance of an IKEA and to take practical steps to keep the Founder's Mentality at the forefront of the way we define strategy, the way we hire front line people, and the way we design compensation systems." -- Psychology Today "Chris Zook and James Allen are known for their books on strategy ... Their new book [The Founder's Mentality] is a departure in the sense that they turn their attention, for the first time, from external strategy to internal, but it continues their now fifteen-year bent of focusing on companies' roots in the process of helping them in periods of growth. ... In that sense, Zook and Allen are staying true to their own core--their core research on how companies grow, which is immense and impressive, and their core purpose of helping leaders through that process. The other consistency across all their books is the great blend of research and storytelling." -- 800-CEO-READ (Editor's Choice) "The founder mentality mixes passion with chutzpah for success...The result of this mentality is a bonus for shareholders. When Mr. Allen and Mr. Zook looked at shareholder returns in the S&P 500 over 15 years, they found firms with strong founder influence performed 3.1 times better." -- Financial Times "This is a very thoughtful and assured exploration of a key challenge that faces all organisations as they scale that will interest founders and those concerned about the long-term health of their organisations." -- The Irish Times "If you are a business in the early-growth stages or believe that having an "early-growth" mindset will be crucial to helping your business, then The Founder's Mentality will provide the vision that you need to begin planning. The book 's authors conducted extensive research on companies in the U.S. and abroad and use that information to provide basic, down-to-Earth principles that can immediately shift your brain (and that of your employees) into a new way of thinking." -- Small Business Trends (smallbiztrends.com) "The duo Chris Zook and James Allen have delivered a bull's-eye. With The Founders Mentality they have written a book that is both practical and technically sound, six out of six stars...Buy this book." -- Borsen (Denmark) "...filled with examples of how large companies like Apple, Haier, Google, IKEA, and Nike have managed to stay in touch with their core values, even as they've grown massive." -- Inc. ADVANCE PRAISE for The Founder's Mentality: Carlos Brito, CEO, Anheuser-Busch InBev-- "The concept of the 'founder's mentality,' and in particular our 'ownership' culture, has been central to our evolution and growth as a company. Remembering how we became successful in the first place has helped us act boldly and quickly with an insurgent mindset. This book offers great insights for business owners and leaders." Michael Dell, founder and CEO, Dell Inc.-- "As a founder I resonate strongly with the themes of The Founder's Mentality, especially with regard to the overwhelming importance of speed, singular focus, and the ability to invest for the long term." Adrian Gore, founder and CEO, Discovery Group-- "Zook and Allen share invaluable insight as to how to preserve a company's founding purpose, perspective, and energy, while preventing institutionalization from diluting it. Their work has been instrumental in the way my leadership team and I think about our culture, our structure, and our business model." Linda Rottenberg, cofounder and CEO, Endeavor Global-- "In this heavily researched and compelling book, Zook and Allen provide a road map for winning growth. Companies that build and maintain healthy cultures scale with speed and sidestep avoidable stall-out. Whether you are a start-up entrepreneur, an investor, or a Fortune 500 manager, you need The Founder's Mentality!" Les Wexner, founder and CEO, L Brands-- "As companies grow, scale and complexity can become a real threat to momentum. Zook and Allen's The Founder's Mentality offers useful insights to help leaders maintain agility in order to sustain their success."

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Book SynopsisIn this book, Melissa Perri explains how laying the foundation for great product management can help companies solve real customer problems while achieving business goals.

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Book SynopsisThe ultimate business how-to book by the icon of American business and one of the world''s most revered and respected leaders, Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric.Winning explores the changes of recent times and the new economic realities, and more than that, it identifies the central, immutable principals of doing business right and doing it well.Winning is a book for the people in business who sweat, get their nails dirty, hire, fire, make hard decisions, and pay the price when those decisions are wrong, said Welch. I see this book as a handbook for people in the trenches, turning their companies and the economy around, not just today, but for years to come. I think it will be useful for people just starting their careers or their own businesses to seasoned managers running multi-billion dollar enterprises. I''ve learned an enormous amount about what works and what doesn''t work throughout my career and I''m very excited about sharing it in Winning.Welch will teach people how to win in business by distilling his experience in three critical areas: working within an organization, dealing with competitors, and handling matters of life and career. Critical to Welch''s writing such an accessible, useful guide is his unique collaboration with his wife, Suzy, the former editor of the Harvard Business Review, who brings expertise in management, writing talent and a woman''s sensibility to articulating the components of Welch''s success.Trade Review“Manager of the Century”— Fortune “Jack is the Tiger woods of management. All CEOs want to emulate him. They won’t be able to, but they’ll come closer if they listen carefully to what he has to say”— Warren Buffett, Chairman, Berkshire Hathaway “An American treasure, Jack Welch teaches us how a leader with keen intellect, guts, and honor can impart courage to people around him, weather unexpected storms, inspire confidence, and take an organization to greater and greater heights. His formula challenges all of us and any institution striving for excellence.”— Bernadine Healy, M.D., President and CEO, American Red Cross

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“With engaging intelligence, Hicks makes a lucid case for the importance of acknowledging a person’s worth within organizations and businesses. It’s a useful book, not only for managers and CEOs, but for anyone wanting to better understand how to bring about the best in themselves and those around them.”—Nina MacLaughlin, Boston GlobeWinner of the 2019 PROSE awards, Business, Management and Finance category“Leading with Dignity conveys a simple, but powerful message: people want to be treated well, and when they are, it brings out the best in them.”—Jon Gordon, author of The Energy Bus and The Power of Positive Leadership“This ‘how-to’ sparks the scaling of dignity within and across us to strengthen human and social capacity. A gift to give and get.”—Dana Born, co-director of the Center for Public Leadership, Harvard University“Nothing short of a landmark publication that will change and influence the public conversation on how we organize and manage.”—Michael Pirson, Fordham University“Donna Hicks articulates for business leaders not only a grand concept but also a practical framework for strengthening corporate culture by recognizing and promoting the inherent value in each employee.”—Kenneth C. Frazier, Chairman and CEO, Merck & Co., Inc.“There has never been a more important time for dignity to be recognized as the key to outstanding institutional, organizational, and community leadership. This book offers a practical and empowering roadmap showing leaders how to build, strengthen, and energize their organizations by cultivating the dignity of all people.”—Linda M. Hartling, Ph.D., Human Dignity and Humiliation Studies “Corporate codes of ethics list treating people with dignity as a core value. Hicks’s book Leading with Dignity brilliantly explains its meaning through practical steps resulting in an ethical culture.”—W. Michael Hoffman, executive director, Center for Business Ethics, Bentley University “This important book speaks directly to leadership and reminds all of us in organizational leadership roles how vital it is to create cultures where the concept of dignity is both understood and embraced. Dignity in practice truly begins at the top!”—Jeanette Clough, president and CEO, Mount Auburn Hospital

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Book SynopsisThink big, buy small.Are you looking for an alternative to a career path at a big firm? Does founding your own start-up seem too risky? There is a radical third path open to you: You can buy a small business and run it as CEO. Purchasing a small company offers significant financial rewards—as well as personal and professional fulfillment. Leading a firm means you can be your own boss, put your executive skills to work, fashion a company environment that meets your own needs, and profit directly from your success.But finding the right business to buy and closing the deal isn't always easy. In the HBR Guide to Buying a Small Business, Harvard Business School professors Richard Ruback and Royce Yudkoff help you: Determine if this path is right for you Raise capital for your acquisition Find and evaluate the right prospects Avoid the pitfalls that could derail your search Understand why a "dull" business might be the best investment Negotiate a potential deal with the seller Avoid deals that fall through at the last minute

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Book SynopsisReveals the strategies and tactics that separate the winners from the losers. This guide argues that power is a force that can be used and harnessed for individual gain, but also for the benefit of organisations and society.Trade Review"Jeff Pfeffer is of immense service to the world with his work, blending academic rigor and practical genius into wonderfully readable text. The leading thinker on the topic of power, Pfeffer here distills his wisdom into an indispensable guide." -- Jim Collins, author of Good to Great and How the Mighty Fall "Talk about speaking truth to power! In refreshingly candid prose, Jeff Pfeffer offers brilliant insights into how power is successfully built, maintained, and employed in organizations. It's well known that when Pfeffer speaks about power, smart people listen. This book shows why." -- Robert Cialdini, author of Influence "Jeff Pfeffer nails it! Political skill, not just talent, is central to success in every field. In Power, this leading scholar comes down to earth with practical, even contrarian, tactics for mastering the power game." -- Rosabeth Moss Kanter, Chaired Professor, Harvard Business School, and bestselling author of Confidence: How Winning Streaks and Losing Streaks Begin and End and SuperCorp "[Power] will help you get comfortable with challenging assumptions and lingering on the pause...[Pfeffer] draws on a wealth of social-science and psychology research." -- Inc. "Its candor, crisp prose, and forthrightness are fresh and appealing... Brimming with frank, realistic insights on paths to the top, this book offers unexpected-and aggressive-directions on how to advance and flourish in an ever-more competitive workplace." -- Publishers Weekly "[Academics and consultants] have an interest in presenting business as a rational enterprise... This leaves the analysis of power to retired businesspeople...(who strive to present themselves as business geniuses rather than Machiavellis) and practicing snake-oil salesmen...Jeffrey Pfeffer of Stanford Business School is an exception to this rule." -- The Economist "[Power] ought to be required reading for would-be leaders...[E]xcellent." -- Financial Times

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Book SynopsisIt''s widely accepted in business that great companies grow their revenues and profits year after year - but bigger is not necessarily better. In Small Giants, journalist Bo Burlingham takes us deep inside fourteen remarkable privately held companies, from a brewery to a record label, that chose a different path to success. These organizations quietly rejected the pressure of endless growth, deciding to focus more on satisfying business goals - being the best at what they do, creating a stimulating place to work, providing perfect customer service and making important contributions to their communities.But what are the magic ingredients that make these companies unique? Why and how does their approach work in such widely varying industries? And what lessons can we learn from them? A fresh, inspirational guide to business strategy, Small Giants will help any entrepeneur consider new directions to make their company great.

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Book SynopsisWritten by experts, inspired by practitioners, focused on challenges: an authentic introduction to management in an ever-changing world.Introduction to Management is a uniquely accessible and engaging companion to managing in the real world. Placing issues of digital, environmental, and social disruption at centre-stage, it guides students through the varied and complex reality of management with ease, encouraging them to develop their own critical view of this dynamic area. Key features Each chapter is authored by an expert who is an active researcher in their field, providing insights into the disruptions and challenges faced by managers today, from those on the forefront of current thinking The running case study integrated throughout the text helps students bridge the gap between theory and real life, with thinking questions prompting them to put theory into practice Practitioner videos embedded in every chapter of the e-book offer an engaging and unique insight into the applications of theory in the workplace Opening case studies in each chapter focus on organizations spanning the public, private, and non-profit sectors, demonstrating the relevance of management theory both within and beyond traditional business settings A diverse and international range of real-world examples woven throughout the text offer a holistic view of management as a global phenomenon Digital formats and resources Introduction to Management is available for students and institutions to purchase in a variety of formats, and is supported by extensive online resources.The e-book offers a mobile experience and convenient access, with learning resources embedded and hyperlinked throughout to offer self-assessment activities and extra support: www.oxfordtextbooks.co.uk/ebooksThe student resources, accessible via the e-book, include:- Practitioner videos in every chapter - Self-test questions - Answer guidance to the end-of-chapter questions - Critical thinking guided exercises for each chapter - Flashcard glossary The book''s teaching resources, accessible online for adopting lecturers, include:- Additional case studies, to use in class- PowerPoint slides to accompany each chapter - A test bank of multiple-choice questions- Figures from the book, available to downloadTrade ReviewIn an age where technology, disruption, diversity and responsibility are taking centre stage, this text is appropriately positioned to introduce management in the context of this reality. The text provokes critical thinking in an encouraging way for those new to learning about management, and challenges the mindsets of those more familiar with management theory and practice. * Dr Natasha Katuta Mwila, De Montfort University *This text provides a robust, accessible, and yet critical introduction to management with clear examples and cases embedded throughout the text. It is an essential textbook for educators who would like to offer a rejuvenated overview of management with an eye on contemporary aspects that are critical for management such as sustainability, diversity, equality, and digitization. * Dr Omid Omidvar, Warwick Business School *Going beyond simply discussing traditional considerations in managing organisations, this text deals with contemporary challenges and puts an emphasis on societal, environmental, and digital considerations. This, in addition to the balance between theoretical concepts and practical examples, cases and insights, provides a great source of knowledge for future managers. * Dr Marianna Koukou, University of Glasgow *This text is the perfect introduction to the wonders of management insights, and how they continue to be relevant despite, or rather because of, the ever-changing and hyper-demanding (business) world we all experience. * Professor Wilfred Dolfsma, Wageningen University *This text explores the fundamental and current areas of management for undergraduate students in a novel and interesting way, and from a multitude of perspectives and contexts. * Dr Sarah Warnes, University College London *In an ever-changing world, this text helps students prepare for many of the challenges they will face during their careers. * Dr Nathalie Benesova, University of Leeds *The vast range of real-world examples and reflections in this text help to drive home to students what it takes to be an effective modern manager. The running case study will have you rooting for Lucy and co throughout! * Dr Gemma Blackledge-Foughali, Queen Margaret University *A refreshingly inclusive and wide-ranging text that encourages critical thinking. * Dr William Cooper, University of Aberdeen *Table of ContentsDavid Paulson: Running case study Part One Managing in context 1: Sarah Birrell Ivory and Emma Macdonald: Understanding management 2: Sarah Birrell Ivory and Emma Macdonald: Exploring organizations 3: Sarah Birrell Ivory and Emma Macdonald: Managing through disruption Part Two Managing an Organization 4: Simon Brooks and Sarah Birrell Ivory: The external environment 5: Simon Brooks and Sarah Birrell Ivory: The internal environment: strategy and planning 6: Emily Yarrow and Sarah Birrell Ivory: Organizational culture and change management Part Three Managing People 7: Catherine Berrington and Emma Macdonald: Human resource management 8: Ishbel McWha-Hermann and Emma Macdonald: Designing work well 9: Thomas Calvard, Sarah Birrell Ivory, and Emma Macdonald: Teams and organizational behaviour 10: Sarah Woolley and Emma Macdonald: Leading and influencing Part Four Managing through the Value Chain 11: Farah Arkadan and Emma Macdonald: Marketing 12: Anthony Alexander and Emma Macdonald: Operations and supply chain 13: Alexander Glosenberg and Emma Macdonald: Entrepreneurship and innovation

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Book SynopsisFrom the New York Times bestselling author of The No Asshole Rule''I am frequently asked, Tom, my brother/sister/friend is taking on a new leadership role. What should they read? I always respond the same way, by recommending one and only one book: Bob Sutton''s Good Boss, Bad Boss'' - Tom Peters, New York Times bestselling author of In Search of Excellence.Good Boss, Bad Boss was inspired by the thousands of emails, calls and conversations that Robert Sutton received after publishing his bestseller The No Asshole Rule - he found that most of the stories and cries for help he received revolved around one central figure in every workplace: THE BOSS.Sutton''s subsequent research showed that the success of every boss depended heavily on how well (or badly) they managed those they worked with and in Good Boss, Bad Boss he demonstrates this by weaving together the best psychological and management secrets witTrade ReviewI am frequently asked, 'Tom, my brother/sister/friend is taking on a new leadership role. What should he read?' I always respond the same way: by recommending one and only one book: Bob Sutton's Good Boss, Bad Boss

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Book SynopsisAbout our authors Jay Heizer The Jesse H. Jones Professor Emeritus of Business Administration, Texas Lutheran University, Seguin, Texas. He received his BBA and MBA from the University of North Texas and his PhD in Management and Statistics from Arizona State University. He also holds the CPIM certification from APICS/ASCM (the Association for Supply Chain Management). He has taught operations management in undergraduate, graduate, and executive programs. Dr. Heizer's industrial experience is extensive. He learned the practical side of operations management as a machinist apprentice at Foringer and Company, as a production planner for Westinghouse Airbrake, and at General Dynamics, where he worked in engineering administration. Professor Heizer has co-authored 5 books and has published articles on a variety of management topics. His papers have appeared in the Academy of Management Journal, Journal of Purchasing, PersTable of ContentsPART 1: INTRODUCTION TO OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT Operations and Productivity Operations Strategy in a Global Environment Project Management Forecasting PART 2: DESIGNING OPERATIONS Design of Goods and Services Supplement 5: Sustainability in the Supply Chain Managing Quality Supplement 6: Statistical Process Control Process Strategies Supplement 7: Capacity and Constraint Management Location Strategies Layout Strategies Human Resources, Job Design, and Work Measurement PART 3: MANAGING OPERATIONS Supply Chain Management Supplement 11: Supply Chain Management Analytics Inventory Management Aggregate Planning and S&OP Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and ERP Short-Term Scheduling Lean Operations Maintenance and Reliability PART 4: BUSINESS ANALYTICS MODULES Decision-Making Tools Linear Programming Transportation Models Waiting-Line Models Learning Curves Simulation Applying Analytics to Big Data in Operations Management

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Book SynopsisBarry Render is Professor Emeritus, the Charles Harwood Distinguished Professor of Operations Management, Crummer Graduate School of Business, Rollins College, Winter Park, Florida. He received his BS in Mathematics and Physics at Roosevelt University and his MS in Operations Research and his PhD in Quantitative Analysis at the University of Cincinnati. He previously taught at George Washington University, the University of New Orleans, Boston University, and George Mason University, where he held the Mason Foundation Professorship in Decision Sciences and was Chair of the Decision Science Department. Dr. Render has also worked in the aerospace industry for General Electric, McDonnell Douglas, and NASA. Dr. Render has coauthored 10 textbooks published by Pearson, including Managerial Decision Modeling with Spreadsheets, Operations Management, Principles of Operations Management, Service Management, IntTable of Contents Introduction to Quantitative Analysis Probability Concepts and Applications Decision Analysis Regression Models Forecasting Inventory Control Models Linear Programming Models: Graphical and Computer Methods Linear Programming Applications Transportation, Assignment, and Network Models Integer Programming, Goal Programming, and Nonlinear Programming Project Management Waiting Lines and Queuing Theory Models Simulation Modeling Markov Analysis Statistical Quality Control APPENDICES Areas Under the Standard Normal Curve Binomial Probabilities Values of for Use in the Poisson Distribution F Distribution Values Using POM-QM for Windows Using Excel QM and Excel Add-Ins Solutions to Selected Problems Solutions to Self-Tests ONLINE MODULES Analytic Hierarchy Process Dynamic Programming Decision Theory and the Normal Distribution Game Theory Mathematical Tools: Determinants and Matrices Calculus-Based Optimization Linear Programming: The Simplex Method Transportation, Assignment, and Network Algorithms Business Analytics

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Book SynopsisHow do you make something out of nothing?Up your game with this masterclass in creative thinking. Combining Dave Trott's distinctive, almost Zen-like storytelling, humour and practical advice, One Plus One Equals Three is a collection of provocative anecdotes and thought experiments designed to light a fire under your own creative ambitions. From the First World War sailor who survived being sunk three times in one day to the one-time 'merchant of death' who made his name a byword for peace, and the gypsy who lost two fingers and then reinvented jazz. From boardroom to battlefield, these stories of unconventional wisdom from one of the world's true advertising greats are a rallying cry for anyone who wants to think differently, stand out and truly innovate.

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Book SynopsisAnyone can be a quiet influencer. But not everyone knows how."A tremendous and relevant read!" Stephen M. R. Covey, New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Speed of TrustDrawing on the enduring wisdom of the Buddha, Confucius, Rumi, Gandhi and others, The Art of Quiet Influence shows anyone, not just bosses, how to use influence without authority, a key mindfulness principle, to get things done at work and in life. Through the classic wisdom of 12 Eastern sages, relevant insights from influence research, and anecdotes and advice from 25 contemporary experts, Davis lays out a path for becoming a "mainspring," the unobtrusive yet powerful influencer first introduced in her book The Greats on Leadership.Organized around three core influence practices - Invite Participation, Share Power, and Aid Progress - readers will learn how to take mindfulness practice "out of the gym and onto the field," while gaining the confidence and practical know-how to be influential in whatever role they occupy.

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Book SynopsisThe concept behind this book is simple and brilliant: find out what makes companies that outperform their peers for decades enjoy that success - and then apply those lessons yourself. Written by multimillion-copy bestselling author, speaker and business management consultant Jim Collins and organizational theorist Jerry Porras, it's the only blueprint you need for sustained business growth.'Built to Last is an unusual business book - seriously researched, unconventional in its conclusions... [It] is well worth reading, particularly by those engaged in trying to reinvigorate our nation's largest enterprises.' -- Wall Street Journal'Outstanding from Jim Collins as always. A definite must-read' -- ***** Reader review'Blew my mind on how to run a business, every leader or business owner should read this book' -- ***** Reader review'Very enlightening!' -- ***** Reader review'This book among top 5 business book I ever read!' -- ***** Reader review*********************************************************************************************'This is not a book about charismatic visionary leaders. It is not about visionary product concepts or visionary products or visionary market insights. Nor is it about just having a corporate vision. This is a book about something far more important, enduring, and substantial. This is a book about visionary companies.'Drawing upon a six-year research project at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business, multimillion copy bestselling author, speaker and consultant focused on business management and company sustainability and growth Jim Collins and organizational theorist Jerry Porras took eighteen truly exceptional and long-lasting companies and studied each company in direct comparison to one of its top competitors. They examined the companies from their very beginnings to the present day - as start-ups, as midsize companies and as large corporations. Throughout, the authors asked: 'What makes the truly exceptional companies different from other companies?'Built to Last is the result of that research: filled with hundreds of specific examples and organized into a coherent framework of practical concepts that can be applied by managers and entrepreneurs at all levels, Built to Last provides a master blueprint for building organizations that will prosper long into the twenty-first century and beyond.Trade ReviewA huge inspiration for our business growth strategy over the years. -- Andy Lothian, CEO of Insights Group * Management Today *'One of the most eye-opening business studies since In Search of Excellence.' -- Kevin Maney * USA Today *'Built to Last is an unusual business book - seriously researched, unconventional in its conclusions...[It] is well worth reading, particularly by those engaged in trying to reinvigorate our nation's largest enterprises.' -- Richard J. Tofel * Wall Street Journal *'In Built to Last, Collins and Porras present a brilliant and lucid analysis and, yes, a blueprint for organizational excellence. It should be required reading.' -- Warren Bennis

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Book SynopsisIn the dawning age of brilliant machines, what will people do better than computers?It's easy to imagine a frightening future in which technology takes over the jobs that we now get paid to do, working more accurately and for barely any cost. Computers can already perform surgery, drive vehicles, write articles and do intricate legal work, so what hope will there be for tomorrow's workforce?Drawing on a wealth of research, Geoff Colvin uncovers the skills that will be in great demand as technology advances - and how they can be developed. In this new machine age, we shouldn't try to beat computers at what they can do. We'll lose that contest. Instead we must look to unlikely places, learn from the best, and cultivate the human abilities that make us unique.Trade ReviewIn Humans are Underrated, Geoff Colvin makes the case that there is no point trying to beat machines at their own game. What makes people special is their inbuilt propensity for social interaction. We work well in groups — communicating, collaborating and, yes, empathising. Our best hope lies in what makes us most different from the logic-processors…in the softer side of human nature. * Financial Times *An intriguing book. Humans need humanness, so that's what will retain market value. Not that the argument's solely economic. It also helps explain, for example, why face-to-face interaction is so critical for wellbeing. Computers can (and probably will) take over or transform every human job, except one: that of being human. -- Oliver Burkeman * Guardian *As machines inexorably become ever more competent at doing machinelike things, interpersonal skills, irreplaceable skills of human interaction, will come to be recognized as being even more valuable than they've always been. This is an extremely important, highly practical, and indeed exhilarating book. -- Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO, WPPBeautifully written and deeply researched, Humans Are Underrated is one of the most creative and insightful leadership books I have ever read. It is a triumph! -- Doris Kearns Goodwin, Pulitzer Prize winning historian and author of Team of RivalsA powerful exposition of the strengths and limitations of technology in shaping our lives and addressing today's greatest challenges. More than ever, as Colvin demonstrates, we need people who embody the most human of qualities. An uplifting account of the enduring potential of humanity itself. -- Paul Polman, CEO, UnileverThrough a series of practical case studies and insights, Colvin clearly demonstrates that regardless of where the future takes us emotional intelligence will remain one of the most valuable human skills and the Human Element will remain a differentiator. -- Andrew N. Liveris, chairman and CEO, Dow Chemical CompanyGeoff Colvin's fresh take on how to respond to the rise of brilliant machines and the changing nature of work is as wise as it is inspiring. -- Dominic Barton, global managing director, McKinsey & CompanyA measured and comprehensive case for the edge that human beings will have over their titanium brethren in the future job market. Packed full of insightful research and case studies, Humans are Underrated makes a compelling case that people aren't surplus to requirements just yet. * Elite Business *A compelling insight into how the human brain can trump technology. * Engineering and Technology *Enlightening. The message here is ultimately a positive one for humanity. * Irish Times *Colvin gives all of us mortals hope. -- Luke Jonhson * Management Today *Captivating and convincing. I think this book will change the way people think about the future. Take time and read it. -- Alan Murray, editor at FortuneCorporate leaders often say, 'People come first'. True innovation is realized only when their actions match their words. -- Robert Greifeld, CEO, Nasdaq

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Book Synopsis'We must reject the idea - well-intentioned, but dead wrong - that the primary path to greatness in the social sectors is to become "more like a business".' So begins this astonishingly blunt and timely manifesto by leading business thinker Jim Collins. Rejecting the belief, common among politicians, that all would be well in society if only the public sector operated more like the private sector, he sets out a radically new approach to creating successful hospitals, police forces, universities, charities, and other non-profit-making organisations. In the process he rejects many deep-rooted assumptions: that somehow it's possible to measure social bodies in purely financial terms; that they can be managed like traditional businesses; that they can be transformed simply by throwing money at them. Instead he argues for radical new attitudes and strategies, using the analytical approach and clear thinking that lie at the heart of Good to Great.

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Book SynopsisIn the Age of Software, will your business dominate and maintain relevance—or will it become a digital relic?As tech giants and startups disrupt every market, those who master large-scale software delivery will define the economic landscape of the 21st century, just as the masters of mass production defined the landscape in the 20th. Unfortunately, business and technology leaders are woefully ill-equipped to solve the problems posed by digital transformation. At the current rate of disruption, half of S&P 500 companies will be replaced in the next ten years. A new approach is needed. In Project to Product, Value Stream Network pioneer and technology business leader Dr. Mik Kersten introduces the Flow Framework—a new way of seeing, measuring, and managing software delivery. The Flow Framework will enable your company's evolution from project-oriented dinosaur to product-centric innovator that thrives in the Age of Software. If you're driving your organization's transformation at any level, this is the book for you. Trade Review"If you want to get rid of obsolete practices and succeed with the new digital, read this book." -- Carlota Perez, author of Technological Revolutions and Financial Capital: The Dynamics of Bubbles and Golden Ages"Project to Product is going to be one of the most influential reads of 2019 and beyond. One that connects work outcomes to business results. One that provides models to make better business decisions. One that gives technology leaders a framework to enable the change necessary for companies to remain relevant.." -- Dominica DeGrandis"Every now and then, a body of work comes along with such timely precision that you think hallelujah! Mik's book Project to Product is the perfect antidote for those businesses struggling with digital transformation, broken Agile implementations, and the onslaught of enterprise disruption. In fact, it's a really important component in the world of flow which is at the forefront of business agility. Not only will this framework help your teams ignite their software delivery cadence but to do it at scale, with high quality, reduced costs, and increased value. And more importantly, with happy teams—with the metrics to prove it." -- Fin Goulding, International CIO at Aviva and co-author of Flow: A Handbook for Change-Makers, Mavericks, Innovation Activists, Leaders: Digital Transformation Simplified and 12 Steps to Flow: The New Framework for Business Agility"I had the pleasure of having an advance copy of Project to Product at my company over the summer—and what an eye opener it is. This book is spot on the journey Volvo Car Group is starting up right now. The insight Mik has in our industry and the way his book describes the Age of Software makes this our new “go to” book for our product journey in our digital landscape!" -- Niclas Ericsson, Senior IT Manager, Volvo Car Corp"With the introduction of the Flow Framework, Mik has provided a missing element to any large-scale Agile transformation. I recommend that anyone involved in complex product delivery read this book and think about how they can apply this thinking to their value stream." -- Dave West, CEO Scrum.org and author of Nexus Framework for Scaling Scrum: Continuously Delivering an Integrated Product with Multiple Scrum Teams"Many large organizations are still applying a management model from the early 1900s optimized for manual labor to everything they do, including complex, unique product development. With this book, Mik provides a great articulation of the importance of focussing on the work not the workers, on the value stream network, and on lessons learned on what to avoid. Mik, who has many years experience working with hundreds of companies on this topic, shares his wisdom and insights via a Flow Framework, which is immensely valuable for organizations who recognize the need to move to better ways of working." -- Jonathan Smart"Project to Product is a very insightful book, and the overall model Mik lays out for the Flow Framework is especially intriguing. Not only does Mik address the complexities of Agile transformation and moving to a product-based development, he also discusses how to get your architecture, process, and metrics integrated in a way to effectively measure value delivery. I got pretty excited about the Flow Framework and look forward to applying it to my own technology transformation activities." -- Ross Clanton, Chief Architect and Managing Director, American Airlines“During our transformation to a '100% Agile' BMW Group IT organization, we discovered early on that the former project portfolio approach did not sufficiently support our journey. Therefore, we started with a transition from 'project to product.' The exchanges with Mik on the topic of product orientation and the Flow Framework was very helpful and a real inspiration for me. The fact that Mik is now sharing his vast knowledge in this book makes me particularly happy. It provides the motivation and the toolset necessary to help create a product portfolio based on a value driven approach. For me it is a must read—and indeed it is also a fun read.” -- Ralf Waltram, Head of IT Systems Research & Development, BMW Group“Organizing software development as a group of loosely connected projects will never lead to good products. Kersten explains how to tie work products to value streams corresponding to features, defects, security, and (technical) debt....A major contribution to the theory of management in the age of software.” -- Carliss Y. Baldwin, William L. White Professor of Business Administration at the Harvard Business School, Emerita, and co-author of Design Rules, Volume 1: The Power of Modularity.Table of ContentsTable of Contents List of Illustrations Foreword by Gene Kim Introduction: The Turning Point PART I: THE FLOW FRAMEWORK Chapter 1 The Age of Software Chapter 2 From Project to Product Chapter 3 Introducing the Flow Framework PART II: VALUE STREAM METRICS Chapter 4 Capturing the Flow Metrics Chapter 5 Connecting to Business Results Chapter 6 Tracking Disruptions PART III: VALUE STREAM NETWORKS Chapter 7 The Ground Truth of Enterprise Toolchains Chapter 8 Specialized Tools and the Value Stream Chapter 9 Value Stream Management Conclusion: Beyond the Turning Point RESOURCES Glossary Notes Index Acknowledgments About the Author

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Book Synopsis The international bestseller—now with a new preface by author John Kotter.Millions worldwide have read and embraced John Kotter’s ideas on change management and leadership.From the ill-fated dot-com bubble to unprecedented M&A activity to scandal, greed, and ultimately, recession—we’ve learned that widespread and difficult change is no longer the exception. It’s the rule. Now with a new preface, this refreshed edition of the global bestseller Leading Change is more relevant than ever.John Kotter’s now-legendary eight-step process for managing change with positive results has become the foundation for leaders and organizations across the globe. By outlining the process every organization must go through to achieve its goals, and by identifying where and how even top performers derail during the change process, Kotter provides a practical resource for leaders and managers charged with making change initiatives work.

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Book SynopsisWith a new foreword by Ken BlanchardAdapting One Minute Manager techniques to enable successful leadership to happen. Using different ways to motivate different kinds of people.Leadership and The One Minute Manager goes straight to the heart of management as it describes the effective, adaptive styles of Situational Leadership. In clear and simple terms it teaches how to become a flexible and successful leader, fitting your style to the needs of the individual and to the situation at hand, and using the One Minute Manager techniques to enhance the motivation of others.

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Book SynopsisTeaches how to apply the secrets of One Minute Manager to have customers falling over themselves to buy your product.Spencer Johnson author of Number one bestselling business book Who Moved My Cheese? and business guru Larry Wilson teach the principles of the One Minute Manager to the sales-person in this motivational business book.Practical advice is offered to help the struggling salesman covering useful pointers for how to behave such as :treat customers like people, listen carefully to their needs, use after-sale calls to generate good will and referrals; as well as motivational, confidence boosting tricks which help bring sales to completion with minimum of effort.Spencer and Larry prove that bad track records can be smashed by applying the simple techniques learnt here and by helping peopleto feel good about what they buy. Creating positive mental states in the customer and the salesperson provides the right environment for a sale.This book is the quick., easy and fun way to achieve success in sales.

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Book SynopsisWith a new foreword by Ken BlanchardThe original, bestselling blockbuster which has transformed businesses world wide.The blockbuster number one international bestselling phenomenon is back not that it ever really went away. This easily-read story quickly demonstrates three very practical management techniques: One Minute Goals, One Minute Praisings and One Minute Reprimands.The One Minute Manager also includes information on several studies in medicine and in the behavioural sciences, which help readers understand why these apparently simple methods work so well with so many people. The book is brief, the language is simple, and best of all it works.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling author of the phenomenally successful essential entrepreneur handbook The E-Myth Revisited presents the next big step in entreprenuerial management and leadership In this practical, real-world program that can be implemented real-time into any business, Michael E. Gerber begins by explaining why the entrepreneur is so critical to the success of any enterprise, no matter how small or large it may be, and why the mindset of an entrepreneur is so integral to the operating reality of the organization. He then covers seven essential skills: leadership, marketing, money, management, lead conversion, lead generation, and client fulfillment. E-Myth Mastery shows readers the difference between being an entrepreneur and doing a job, and teaches them how to get money when banks won't help, how to expand their customer bases when big business moves in down the street, and how to make sure their businesses keep their promises every single time.Trade Review"Gerber loves to exhort people to develop powerful visions for their companies." -- Fortune "The power of the E-Myth will transform your business and your life." -- Allan D. Koltin, CPA, President and CEO, Practice Development Institute "The power of the E-Myth will transform your business and your life." -- The John Hancock Insurance Group "Gerber's powerful insights have given thousands of entrepreneurs new control over their businesses." -- Success "Here is, if not the only source of good advice, at least an important source." -- Booklist

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Book SynopsisQuiet leaders are masters at bringing out the best performance in others. They improve the thinking of people around them - improving the way their brains process information - without telling anyone what to do. This book provides a brain-based approach that helps executives and managers improve their own and their colleagues' performance.Trade Review"This highly practical guide includes exercises for each major concept, giving readers a chance to practice what they've learned." -- Library Journal "Quiet Leadership will help you improve other people's thinking, which is the best place to begin improving other people's performance." -- Marshall Goldsmith, founder of Marshall Goldsmith Partners; named one of the 50 greatest thinkers who have impacted the field of management by the American Management Association. "Essential reading for any leader who has ever wondered 'Why don't people do what I tell them to do?.'" -- Elisa Mallis, Human Performance Consultant, Accenture, London A quick and useful guide to a softer management style that draws on recent discoveries in the field of neuroscience -- Continental Magazine

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Book SynopsisShows corporate leaders how they can use tribes - the groups that naturally form within any company - to maximize productivity and profit within their own firms. Based on a rigorous eight-year study that covered more than two dozen companies and 24,000 people, this title includes interviews with leading business figures.Trade Review"Tribal Leadership gives amazingly insightful perspective on how people interact and succeed. I learned about myself and learned lessons I will carry with me and reflect on for the rest of my life." -- John W. Fanning, Founding Chairman and CEO napster Inc. "[A]n unusually nuanced view of high-performance cultures... [S]hare the book with your Type A's and prima donnas, as it expertly describes the tension between loners who perform exceptionally and those who perform exceptionally but who measure success as part of a team." -- Inc. "[T]he most thorough and unique book to come along pertaining to organizational dynamics in quite some time...Whether you're trying to move an organization forward or trying to move forward yourself, Tribal Leadership is a great place to begin your efforts. -- Business Lexington "Leaders of both for profit and non-profit organizations, including politicians, and can benefit from perusing Tribal Leadership." -- McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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Book SynopsisWhat is a boundary? Simply put, a boundary is a property line that defines ownership, and responsibility. Beginning with a lucid description of how brains actually work, the author applies those principles to the critical aspects of a leader's work: how to manage teams, coach direct reports, and instill an organization with values and culture.Trade Review"...the book offers a valuable perspective and ideas." -- Booklist

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Book SynopsisThe revolutionary book that teaches you how to use the cutting edge of human psychology to build high performing workplace cultures.Too often, great cultures feel like magic. Most importantly, it teaches you to build great cultures, using a systematic and sustainable approach.High performing cultures cant be left to chance.Trade Review"Getting organizational culture right is as difficult as it is critical. Doshi and McGregor provide numerous real-world recommendations for how to do this. They bring to bear years of hands-on experience that will prove invaluable to leaders in all sectors-corporate, non-profit, and public." -- -Joel Klein, CEO Amplify, former Chancellor NYC public schools. "Getting organizational culture right is as difficult as it is critical. Doshi and McGregor provide numerous real-world recommendations for how to do this. They bring to bear years of hands-on experience that will prove invaluable to leaders in all sectors-corporate, non-profit, and public." -- -Tom Doctoroff, CEO Asia Pacific, J. Walter Thompson, author of Twitter is Not a Strategy "A winning strategy requires a winning organizational culture to carry it forward. In Primed to Perform former McKinsey consultants Neel Doshi and Lindsay McGregor give us practical guidance and proven practices to effectively transform our organizations through the science of motivation and performance." -- -Jeff DeGraff , The dean of innovation, professor, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, author of Leading Innovation "A fresh, ambitious look at the science and practice of motivation, with big implications for leaders to fuel high-performing, high-energy cultures. Primed to Perform is an excellent companion to Drive." -- -Adam Grant, Wharton professor and New York Times bestselling author of Give and Take "A grand tour of the science of culture, filled with awe-inspiring experiments and surprising, real-life case studies. Smart, deeply researched, and incredibly practical, leaders will turn to this book again and again whether they're building an organization from scratch or transforming an established company." -- -Shawn Achor, happiness researcher and New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Advantage "This book is loaded with fascinating, thought-provoking and actionable advice that could transform a workplace from drudgery to real engagement. Take notes." -- -Patrick Lencioni, president, The Table Group, author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and The Advantage "Primed to Perform doesn't just provide tactics for motivating a few superstars; it offers a proven system for motivating an entire workforce. If you want to get your team off yesteryear's career ladders and onto new learning curves--stretching, growing and contributing at their best--read this book." -- -Liz Wiseman, President, The Wiseman Group, bestselling author of Multipliers and Rookie Smarts

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Book SynopsisNow a Wall Street Journal bestseller.Learn a new talent, stay relevant, reinvent yourself, and adapt to whatever the workplace throws your way. Ultralearning offers nine principles to master hard skills quickly. This is the essential guide to future-proof your career and maximize your competitive advantage through self-education.In these tumultuous times of economic and technological change, staying ahead depends on continual self-education—a lifelong mastery of fresh ideas, subjects, and skills. If you want to accomplish more and stand apart from everyone else, you need to become an ultralearner. The challenge of learning new skills is that you think you already know how best to learn, as you did as a student, so you rerun old routines and old ways of solving problems. To counter that, Ultralearning offers powerful strategies to break you out of those mental ruts and introduces new training methods to he

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Book SynopsisThe answer to better productivity isn’t more hours—it’s less waste and fewer things that induce distraction and persistent stress.It’s time to stop celebrating Crazy, and start celebrating Calm, Fried and Hansson assert.Fried and Hansson have the proof to back up their argument.

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Book SynopsisA manual for achieving McKinsey-style solutions and success. It reveals the secrets behind the powerhouse firm's success and discusses how executives from various fields or industry can use those tactics in day-to-day decision-making. It explores how McKinsey tools and techniques can be applied to business problem sin various settings.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents the essential steps of Charlie Munger's investing strategy, condensed from interviews, speeches, writings, and shareholder letters and paired with commentary from fund managers, value investors, and business-case historians. Munger's approach is straightforward enough that ordinary investors can apply it to their portfolios.Trade ReviewCharlie Munger is, arguably, the world's best investor. His 'worldly wisdom'-a latticework of understanding separate disciplines-is a powerful way to achieve superior investment results. Without it, success in the market-or anywhere else-is a short-lived fluke. -- Robert Hagstrom, author of The Warren Buffett Way and Investing: The Last Liberal Art Griffin offers an elegantly unified theory of Munger's ideas, organized in a coherent framework from a generous sampling of his scattered remarks in various forums over many years. Intelligent, thoughtful, helpful-and a delight to read. -- Lawrence Cunningham, author of Berkshire Beyond Buffett: The Enduring Value of Values What if I told you that the world's greatest living investor was also one of the most prolific writers and thinkers on the subject? And what if there were a single book containing all of his most insightful comments in a highly focused series of lessons, anecdotes, and instructions for success? I'm happy to tell you that, in Tren Griffin's Charlie Munger, that book has finally arrived. -- Joshua M. Brown, CEO, Ritholtz Wealth Management, author of Backstage Wall Street Griffin is better than anyone else at explaining the most important ideas from the best and brightest minds in business and investing in a way people can easily understand. This book is overflowing with wisdom. Readers will receive a master's degree in decision making, investing, human psychology, and much more. The definitive book on Warren Buffet's business partner. -- Ben Carlson, author of A Wealth of Common Sense: Why Simplicity Trumps Complexity in Any Investment Plan Munger's life is about facing reality, from personal relationships to lofty financial transactions. Griffin demonstrates how Munger sees 'possible' where others see the opposite. How Munger sees the weeds in the river yet also the wonderful fish swimming there. -- Janet Lowe, author of Damn Right: Behind the Scenes with Berkshire Billionaire Charlie Munger Charlie Munger is one of the greatest thinkers of our time. Combine his wisdom with Griffin's ability to synthesize thoughts and this book is truly a work of wisdom. It will guide you on how to think differently, which is the most important-and most lacking-skill among business leaders and investors. -- Morgan Housel, author of Everyone Believes It, Most Will Be Wrong: Motley Thoughts on Investing and the Economy Griffin does an extraordinary job of curating, synthesizing, and organizing the vast wisdom Munger has left for humanity. -- Shane Parrish Farnam Street treasure trove of observations and comments by Mr. Munger, Warren Buffet's investment expert. -- Nancy K. Webman Pensions & Investments All who are interested in finance will want this book... Highly recommended. Choice If you put it down feeling as if you haven't learned enough, blame yourself, not the author. Better Investing Well-organized and thoughtful... Griffin expertly displays how Munger's own ideas both emerged from, and later departed with the intellectual foundations laid by [Ben] Graham. The CharlietonTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. The Basics of the Graham Value Investing System 2. The Principles of the Graham Value Investing System 3. Worldly Wisdom 4. The Psychology of Human Misjudgment 5. The Right Stuff 6. The Seven Variables in the Graham Value Investing System 7. The Right Stuff in a Business Berkshire Math Moats Value Investing vs. Factor Investing Notes Glossary Bibliography

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Book SynopsisA new business parable from John Kotter - the leading authority on leadership and change, and bestselling author of Our Iceberg is MeltingThat''s Not How We Do It Here is the story of a clan of meerkats who live in the Kalahari. Well organised and efficient, the colony enjoys many years of successful growth, until it suddenly comes under threat from a new form of predator and is forced to rethink its organizational structure. John Kotter uses this charming parable to explore why organizations often struggle no matter their past success, and why they fall. Kotter shows that by embracing reliability, efficiency, speed and agility, and building passion, discipline and personal growth, organizations can once again prosper, fulfil their mission, create great jobs and services and generate wealth.Trade ReviewThis remarkable parable shows us how we re "safer" in changing times when we innovate! * Spencer Johnson, MD, author of WHO MOVED MY CHEESE? *A meerkat falling prey to the unexpected attack of a vulture doesn't keep many leaders up at night. But the unanticipated assault of new competitor, or a fundamental shift in the operating environment, can evoke an almost paralyzing fear in the most successful organizations. This simple parable of furry mammals facing the challenge of adapting to threat offers real insights into the journey so many of us must make. Brilliant! * General Stanley McChrystal, author of TEAM OF TEAMS and co-founder of the McChrystal Group *It works. And not just for meerkats. * Gaetan Thomas, NB Power president and CEO *John Kotter does it again. His use of metaphor helps readers distill down to the fundamental requirements for a high-performing organization: tapping the hearts and minds of team members in service to a compelling purpose. Leadership enables this, and in doing so unlocks tremendous creativity and potential. * Leigh Morgan, COO, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation *Kotter and Rathgeber's ability to impart clear lessons via fable is as strong as ever * TD Magazine *

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Book Synopsis

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