Two Intellectuals Namely Jerry I. Porras And Jim Collins (Book Review Sample)

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Book Review: Built to Last
Built to Last is a leadership book authored by two intellectuals namely Jerry I. Porras and Jim Collins. The first publication of the book was done in October 26th, 1994. This publication was done in English and the book majorly addresses the aspect of corporate strategy. Built to Last was published in the united states by William Collins. The book is non-fictional and consists of 336 pages in total.
Jim Collins is a lecturer and a lead surveyor to major corporate businesses. Therefore, the urge to evaluate the success of major corporate businesses was part of his professional work. Dissemination of knowledge is a noble thing and therefore, Jim Collins and Jerry Porras decided to share their knowledge through publications. The underlying objectives towards development of main ideas in the book were based on the interest of the authors to identify the main drivers and the pivot where visionary companies are anchored. The second concern was how to effectively communicate these ideas in an effort to influence management practice so that individuals, who create, maintain and build visionary companies can be aided (p12). The authors indicate that, visionary companies have a greater distinction through their primary dynamics and characteristics which encourages them to establish a lasting success in these associated companies. An extensive survey of over seven hundred chief executive officers in over five hundred leading companies was done by the authors. However, the persons of interest were further narrowed to chief executive officers in twenty leading companies. The authors argue that this strategy enabled them not only to identify the general characteristics but also to pin point specific characteristics which manifest the success story of these companies. In this effect, I realized that I was convinced about the data and views presented in the book. I deeply convinced about the substantial and informative role that the book had in shaping future corporate leaders. According to the authors, experimentation, commitment, accident and focus among other factors.
The book is designed to satisfy the authors’ hypothesis that great companies start with greater ideas. The book is credible given that it has been consistent since 1994 to date most of the companies which featured in the book as visionary have maintained their status. However, companies such as Sony, Boeing, Ford, Motorola and Walt Disney among others have failed to realize t...