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Managing in a Time of Great Change

Peter Ferdinand Drucker

Plume, 1995

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Peter Drucker’s greatest hits. That’s the easiest way to describe this book, which compiles essays written by the ultimate management guru from 1991 to 1994. All of these essays are about change: changes in the economy, society, business and in organizations in general. Drucker’s advice on how managers should adjust to these tectonic shifts centers around the rise of the now ubiquitous knowledge worker and the global economy. As always, Drucker’s analysis is far enough ahead of the curve that his 90s-era observations and conclusions are still relevant in the 21st century. getAbstract recommends this seamlessly organized book as the perfect introduction to one of the most important management thinkers of his generation.

Summary

The Post-Capitalist Executive

Transformations in the economy and society have changed the structure of business organizations. As a result, managers need a new approach. Most importantly, managers need an alternative to the traditional command authority, since old chains of command are breaking down. Managers must learn to work in an environment in which business relationships increasingly are based on alliances and partnerships built on trust and shared responsibility. For example, companies are now outsourcing work to outside organizations and individuals and managers must learn to oversee these relationships without direct control.

You also need to be more flexible in managing your own career. Companies themselves are going through great changes as they are split up or acquired. There are rapid changes in technology, markets, and structures. As a result, you must be ready to move or make changes in what you do, since you can’t design your life around a temporary organization.

Don’t think in terms of jobs, careers paths, or promotions up the same organization. Rather, think in terms of signing on for successive assignments and developing competencies, ...

About the Author

Peter F. Drucker has taught, written and lectured on business and management theories and techniques for over 40 years. Since 1971, he has been a professor of Social Sciences at the Claremont Graduate School in California. He is also an editorial page columnist for the Wall Street Journal, and has received many awards and honorary degrees for his work.

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K. N. 7 years ago

This is a good piece and a must read for managers and aspiring managers.

Managing in a Time of Great Change

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The Post-Capitalist Executive

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