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In Search of Excellence
Book

In Search of Excellence

Lessons from America's Best-Run Companies

Thomas J. Peters and Robert H. Waterman
HarperBusiness, 1988
First Edition: 1982

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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Innovative
  • Applicable

Recommendation

This book presents the results of a research project that authors Tom Peters and Robert Waterman conducted from 1979 to 1980. They investigated the qualities common to the best-run companies in America. After selecting a sample of 43 companies from six major industries, they examined the firms’ practices closely. Although they did this study more than 20 years ago, their results provide a model of eight core principles for excellence that are still true for companies today. These eight principles may seem like common sense, but this research was the first to identify these qualities systematically. This excellent book is a management classic. Many stories illustrate its key points. getAbstract recommends this pivotal book to everyone in business.

Take-Aways

  • McKinsey’s 7-S Framework comprises shared values, systems, style, staff, skills, strategy and structure.
  • People aren’t always rational. Emphasize the importance of that “messy human stuff.”
  • Create “a bias for action” by allowing a vast network of informal, open communications.

About the Authors

Thomas J. Peters is an author, speaker, and professional agitator. His books include The Little BIG Things, Re-Imagine!, Thriving on Chaos, Liberation Management, and The Circle of Innovation Robert H. Waterman is a director of a major consulting company and author of several books, including What America Does Right and The Renewal Factor.

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