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Title:
Leading the Revolution
Review:
This is an engaging, inspirational book, written in an energetic and informal style. The central thesis is that true business value is created by radical business concepts, not by incremental improvements to existing business models. Or, as Hamel succinctly puts it: "those who live by the sword will be shot by those who don't."
It expresses complex arguments very simply, using down-to-earth language and plenty of real world examples. In fact, the single most persuasive argument Hamel uses to support his views is the practical examples of success resulting from innovative business concepts.
The key to generating superior business returns, Hamel argues, is learning to think about business strategically as opposed to operationally. Operational thinking is characterised by a focus on the present, on certainties, and what is "real", while strategic thinking is focused on the future, on possibilities and on "play". To quote Blake, "what is now proved was once only imagined", and Hamel's key argument is that the information age we are now entering gives unprecedented opportunities for the exercise of the imagination to create new sources of business value. Or rather, to create new ways of working; the key is that a business concept is better than before, and this will naturally lead to profitability. As Hamel says, "you can't use an old map to find new land."
At this point, you may be thinking, "this is all very well, but how does it apply to my day job?" Hamel gives detailed examples, from companies such as IBM, Shell and Sony, of how visionary thinking on the part of one or two dedicated individuals has radically changed the nature of a company. And it is this that makes the book very good rather than merely very interesting. Because Hamel gives concrete examples of his philosophy in practice, and also gives a detailed checklist for implementing his ideas, it becomes possible for the reader to see how they could apply these ideas to their own organisation. The only problem is that if you do, you might well get sacked. But Hamel would argue, does that matter in today's business environment?
In summary, this book is a fantastically interesting, stimulating read with real practical applications. You may not, in the end, decide to start a "revolution" in your own organisation. But you will certainly think differently about business and the real sources of competitive advantage as we move into the information age.
Free Pint Reviewer:
Drosten Fisher works as a Research Associate for Impact Plus plc. Founded in 1990, Impact Plus is one of the fastest growing management consultancies in the UK and Ireland. It is Impact Plus' mission to make a positive impact on the business of our clients. We have an enviable reputation for delivering independent, practical, value-for-money advice. Impact Plus has offices in London, Edinburgh, Manchester and Dublin and has delivered in virtually every market sector. Impact Plus is also a principal member of E-I Consulting Group, with access to 1,800 consultants in 75 offices worldwide. www.impactplus.co.uk
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