Built to Last

368 pages, 1994

Jim Collins

business & management

1082 books

self-improvement

909 books

Takeaways

Description

Based on the results of a six-year research project at Stanford University Graduate School of Business, Built to Last combines the knowledge gained from studying eighteen truly exceptional and long-lasting companies with the authors’ own expertise in the field of business management.

Throughout this book, Collins and Porras ask: What makes the truly exceptional companies different from their competitors? Filled with hundreds of specific examples and organized into a coherent framework of practical concepts that can be applied by managers and entrepreneurs at all levels, Built to Last provides a master blueprint for building organizations that will prosper long into the 21st century.

Visionary Companies

In 'Built to Last', Jim Collins explores the concept of 'visionary companies'. He suggests that these companies are successful because they stick to their core values and purpose, while adapting their strategies and practices to a changing world. So, if you're looking to build a lasting company, it's worth taking a look at your core values and purpose.

Preserve the Core, Stimulate Progress

One of the key ideas in the book is the principle of 'Preserve the Core, Stimulate Progress'. This means that while it's important to stay true to your company's core values, you also need to be open to change and innovation. This balance is what helps companies to survive and thrive in the long term.

Try a Lot of Stuff and Keep What Works

Collins encourages companies to experiment and innovate. He suggests that successful companies 'try a lot of stuff and keep what works'. This approach allows companies to adapt and evolve, while still staying true to their core values. So, if you're feeling stuck, it might be time to start experimenting.

Home-Grown Management

In his research, Collins found that successful, long-lasting companies often promote from within. This 'home-grown management' approach ensures that the company's core values and culture are preserved. So, if you're looking to build a lasting company, you might want to take a closer look at your promotion policies.

Good Enough Never Is

Finally, 'Built to Last' suggests that successful companies are never satisfied with 'good enough'. They're always striving for excellence and looking for ways to improve. This relentless pursuit of excellence is what sets them apart. So, if you're looking to build a successful company, it's worth asking yourself: is 'good enough' really good enough for you?

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Built to Last is a compelling analysis of how great companies triumph over time and how long-term sustained performance can be engineered into the DNA of an enterprise.

Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

Built to Last provides a master blueprint for building organizations that will prosper long into the 21st century and beyond.

Jeff Bezos - Amazon Founder

Built to Last is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the principles that make a successful company.

Warren Buffet - Investment Guru

Built to Last offers a deep dive into what it takes to build an enduring, great company. It's a book that every entrepreneur should read.

Mark Zuckerberg - Facebook Founder

Built to Last is a fascinating study of the world's most successful companies and what makes them stand the test of time. It's a must-read for any business leader.