Built to Last
A review of

Built to Last

Successful Habits of Visionary Companies

Jerry I. Porras and Jim Collins • HarperBusiness • 2002

Secrets of Corporate Longevity

by David Meyer

Jerry I. Porras and Jim Collins break down decades of research to discover how certain companies maintain success and market dominance over the long haul.

Jim Collins, author of Good to Great and Great by Choice, and Stanford professor Jerry I. Porras explain what makes some companies significant, lasting and “visionary.” Their classic 1994 management guide remains relevant and insightful, though not every featured company managed to survive.

The authors’ analysis illuminates their in-depth research into decades of corporate history and operations. Their engaging, detailed narrative discusses and debunks business myths and provides actionable, sometimes counterintuitive guidance. With honesty and insight, they explain why some firms flourish and others fail.

Comment on this review