Built to Last
HarperBusiness, November, 2004.
Hardcover, 342 pages.
ISBN: 0060566108
In Built to Last authors Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras
offer a look at what makes visionary companies so
outstanding and successful. To determine what makes the winners tick,
Collins and Porras compared highly successful companies like
General Electric, 3M, Merck, Wal-Mark, Walt Disney
and Boeing to a close competitor. For example, Sony is
compared to Kenwood, Wal-Mart is compared to Ames and
GE is compared to Westinghouse. Along the way Collins and
Porras dispel some myths about what makes successful company.
One of the most interesting myths that they dispel is
the myth that you initially need a great product
to becoming a visionary compay. They found that some
of the best companies followed more of a trial and error process
that eventually led to them creating many good and successful
products. Another myth they dispel is the myth that only
charismatic leaders can build visionary companies.
The authors also take a close look at core ideologies in the
companies, profitability and risk taking. Executives will get a
lot out of this book as it also discusses the management and
leadership practices inside the studied companies. The authors also
offer great insights to investors that are always looking to
find the next great
visionary company. Highly recommended.
Built to Last is available for purchase on Amazon.com
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This review was published in the November-December, 2004 of The Internet Writing Journal.
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