The book, “Built To Last”, is an outstanding book on companies that have remained (in some cases, survived) in business for many years. These successful companies are more than just the products and services they provide for the public. There is a certain culture and identity that permeates throughout the organization. The book, “Built To Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies”, is indeed a good book for many CEOs and even business owners to emulate and study.
The style on how the two authors present their analysis of companies and how they compare two companies is done by alternating the authors in the chapters. Jim Collins has enthusiasm and energy. His perspectives comes across clear and concise. On the other hand, Jerry Porras seems a bit lethargic. He does offer a detailed and analytical perspective.
There are several issues that are brought out on why companies survive and thrive for so long such as Wal-Mart and Disney. One is that they are visionary. Visionary has a long-term perspective on all decisions. Decisions are based on the long-term impact rather than the short-term cost of it. It is also interesting to note that many of these visionary companies do not have dynamic or charismatic leaders. They thrive on consistency rather than on ego. Also, these companies are not product-driven. The product does not drive the company. It is the people and vision behind the product that enables long-term survival especially in recessions, depressions, and tough economic times. This is important in order for a company to be built to last.
As you read through their analysis on companies that last, you will notice that recent companies have failed because they did not follow some time-proven principles. One company that came to mind was Enron. It had extremely dynamic (but unethical) leaders. Enron was voted by a business publication as one of the best companies just shortly before its huge collapse. Enron would not past the “Built To Last” litmus test.
There are both good and not-so good points of the book. Personally, I enjoy reading the chapters by Jim Collins. I had to focus when reading the chapters by Jerry Porras. It is a matter of presenting the material. I relate to Jim Collins dynamic and energetic presentation.
This is a good book that even seems like a college or academic presentation. It would be interesting how recent successful companies such as Google would be “built to last”.
By: Pascasio JR Felisilda
About the Author:
As an author, Pascasio Felisilda recently published the book “Nanay: Lessons from a Mother”. This is a very inspiring book. Its simplicity empowers the message and story about a legacy that is worth living. The book is available through http://www.ebookstand.com/book_details/Nanay_Lessons_from_a_Mother_PAPERBACK_VERSION or through
