Built To Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies

Nearly 20 years ago this book has been written, and it is still so applicable !Based on scientific research on “visionary” companies, a lot of interesting findings are formulated. I several times felt like reading thoughts which I have been (subconsciously) thinking for years, and applied professionally. What a relief the see them so nicely formulated ! Why haven’t I read this book before?Ideas I liked most:- Preserve the Core and Stimulate Progress: you should separate the Core Ideology (which shouldn’t change) from the drive for Progress (which can change and should never be satisfied)- No tyranny of the OR: instead of having to choose between Continuity OR Change (for example), you should choose Continuity AND Change. The authors put it like this: “The ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain ability to function”- Good enough never is: visionary companies always go for better, good enough (or the 80/20 rule) is not enough.

I gained a lot of new ideas from this book. As with many books of this style, it presents ideas and then goes on to show the evidence that these ideas come from. The evidence, although well researched, can make it a bit of a stodgy read at times. Ultimately though, it was well worth my time reading it.

Well read, insightful material on what it means to build a lastingly great organisation. The follow up book Good to Great is an essential read/listen alongside this one. I can't believe I had to buy this on CDs rather than listen via Kindle/Audible!

I have to admit that I had put off reading this book as I suspected it may be a bit boring, but I was very pleasantly surprised. I like the style of the book and also the fact that it is not just a report of facts the authors have tried to write it in such a style as to be applied in a practical manner within a business.

Built to Last is essential ground-work for all organizational strategy lovers to understand organizational dynamics. Collins and Porras introduce fascinating concepts that shed light on why some organizations thrive over the long-term, some of these concepts include: leaders who build structures to ensure an organization's longevity (as opposed to having brilliant ideas that others implement); leaders / organizations that can embrace opposing states (such as adhering to core values AND embracing dynamic and changing circumstances). Highly recommended for anyone interested in organizational strategy, development, leadership.

This book is a must read for anyone looking to create a visionary company. The examples within it are brilliant & very thought provoking. 'Used' book was in excellent condition. Thank you

Jim Collins stuff is the best on the market for any business. This and good to great are fantastic.

The book is really amazing. It's really nice to read and contains tons of tips for managers who want to contribute to the growth of their organization. I especially love the blend between the scientific and popular writing style. It's a book you will remember.

Built to Last is a book of luminescent importance among books about successful companies/organizations. Based on the thorough research of Jim Collins (of Good to Great fame) and Jerry Porras, this book examines the qualities of visionary companies who had great success and staying power in their fields. They identified 18 such companies and had a comparison group of comparable companies in the same industry. The results are conclusive. Visionary companies thrive on being clock makers who build their organization to improve each year and withstand the test of time. They fervently focus on their core competencies. They consistently stay true to their core values. Yet they will change and innovate. They adopt the “genius of and” realizing they can be equally committed to seemingly contradictory purposes, yet those purposes are actually equally important. For example these companies can be committed to serving people, AND they can seek to dominate their market. They embody the yin and yang concept, complementary forces that co-exist and support one another. Visionary organizations are also committed to serving people and the greater common good, however they define it. They aren’t focused on profit as the most important purpose.This is another Collins book that is a total game changer, along with Good to Great and How the Mighty Fall. It’s a classic read of brilliant proportions. Any business or organizational leader who seeks to build something that lasts and thrives long after our own tenures passed to someone else, needs to read this book. NOW!

Amazing book

A few years old now so the companies and examples are less relatable today. However, the concepts are powerful and very much still relevant.

Lettura piacevole e veloce con diversi spunti di riflessione sicuramente molto interessanti ed utile a tutti indipendentemente dall’inquadramento aziendale che hanno.

very nice book