Organizations Books

I'm a big fan of the Dummies series and never thought I'd find anything to compete with it except for the Idiot's Guides. I was wrong. I found this book covers the topic much better than the Dummies and Idiot's guides. The author writes in my kind of language - plain and simple so the average guy can understand. And the indepth coverage of the industry is a bonus. I really like the author's down to earth style of writing. This is a buy.

I am currently working in Silicon Valley and found this book to be extremely helpful for me to understand networking and communicate with my clients here in the Valley. Mr. Keogh clearly explains the fundamentals of networking so that the reader can follow the how networking works and have confidence in discussing networking with others. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Keogh's books.

I'm a college instructor. During the summer I was asked to teach a basic network course for the fall term designed for students who are beginning their networking studies. Books I used for my other networking courses were MCSE books that were too detailed for my students. Then I came across this book, which is perfect for my class. The material is detailed enough so students come away with a good understanding of the concepts, yet not too detailed to overwhlem them. This is a perfect blend - and the companion website to this book offers slides and test questions free. I highly recommend this book to any instructor - or any student.

Keogh keeps an excellent balance between material for "complete idiots" and material for engineers. He uses simple metaphors (lots of highway traffic comparisons) to explain the "why" and "how" of networks, and anticipates reader's questions fairly well. The book is up to date, and covers just about any subject you need to be familiar with if you want to talk to engineers using their vernacular. The industry overview, covering major players, was particularly useful. There is one flaw, whose importance depends on your own reading habits: the writing style is atrocious, and it looks as if the book never went through an editor at Prentice Hall. While the conversational style makes the material easier to absorb, there is a good number of spots that would be marked in red all over if this was an English 101 paper. Still worth it, though.

I always found computer networking mystifying in the way it can transport my words around the world in a fraction of a second. I've read a lot of books on the subject, but this is the only one I found that clearly explains this process. The book is full of networking jargon, but that shouldn't scare you because each is explained in a way anyone can understand. He uses the highway metaphor, so if you understand how cars travel the highway then you'll easily relate to how words and pictures travel on a network. I recommend this book hands down.

I read this book while spending a week at a Young Life camp facility, and found it very inspiring and challenging. It is the biography of Jim Rayburn, Jr., written by his son. Mr. Rayburn confronted many obstacles in his life, but pressed on in serving the Lord in spite of the adversity. He was apparently a very winsom, energetic, charismatic individual and the book conveys his personality well. I finished reading this work inspired to let God be greater in me.

This is a must read for any person willing to examine the life he/she leads. What a great way to delve into the questions: "Does God exist?" "How does he work in people's lives today?" and "Is it worth it?" It's not only a first-hand look at Jim and Maxine Rayburn from the inside, but a beautiful glimpse of the workings of Christ in modern times. Whether Christian or not, this book promises to deliver on every level: it will make you laugh, cry, examine your own life, and challenge your thoughts. Jim Rayburn III hit the nail on the head with this amazing story of his father, the founder of Young Life, the legacy he left behind, and the torment he went through due to his humanness. As a former Young Life kid, I owe a lot to his first convictions. You will, too.

This book was one of the more "impacting" pieces of literature I have picked up in a long time. It's the inspirational story of a man's desire for rich intimacy with God, and his burning love affair with The Savior. Throughout the story, miracles unfold one by one before the readers eyes. This book played a significant role in my desire to join the Young Life staff four years ago in Littleton, Colorado. I have been inspired by Jim's love for kids as I continue to invest my life in those at Columbine High School. As I reflect on this story, it makes me regretful-that I have only one life to give for Christ.

Kevin Parker Young Life Area Director South Jefferson County, CO

If the mission of Young Life played a role in your life at any level; whether as a "club kid", camper, committee member, staff, or volunteer, then Bondage to Liberty, Dance Children Dance is essential reading for you. To understand the mission, you must understand the man God chose to initiate it, Jim Rayburn Jr. His son, Jim Rayburn III, provides the means to understand that man in this book. Primary source materials including personal journals, "club talks", and first-hand observations shed light on Jim's character and internal thought processes, personal relationships, incredible prayer life, and personal spiritual highs and lows. Photographs and expanded captions add much to the painting of Jim's portrait. More than a simple biography, Bondage to Liberty honestly examines the lives of Jim and Maxine Rayburn, their human struggles, frailties, shortcomings, and the miraculous work accomplished through them. In the process, it opens a window into Jim's relationship to his Heavenly Father and his God-sized vision for reaching teens with the message of the Christian faith in terms they could relate to. More than just documenting a work with youth, Bondage to Liberty reveals the varied spectrum of Young Life's history from its conceptual beginnings in the rural Southwest, to the anointed growth and impact during its early decades, through its tumultuous social and corporate growing pains, and on to its current condition today. In the context of the story of this man and his work, we are reminded that making an impact with teenagers, or anyone in this world, has more to do with love than it does logistics, requires availability more that it does capability, and demands faith rather than fancy formulas. Just as with the mission it documents, Jesus Christ and knowing real life in Him isn't just one thing Bondage to Liberty is about, its all Bondage to Liberty is about.

Jim Rayburn III has captured the spirit of a great movement that has made the world a better place to live. Jim Rayburn, the author's father and founder of Young Life lived a life committed to sharing God's love with young people. This is an important book for anyone who wishes to know the inside story of a person dedicated to serving God. It is a life high "highs" and low "lows". It is a life of pain, tragedy, disappointment, felt betrayal and a life of joy, faith, love, compassion and humor. It is a life of prayer and close commumion with the Almighty. Jim III has openly shared the inside struggles of his family as well as the inside struggles of the organization of Young Life. This book will be an encouragement to any unafraid to confront a great truth, that great accomplishments can be experienced in the middle of great pain.

I ordered this book because it was required for a graduate class that I was taking, but I found it to be an excellent resource. The author provides numerous examples for how to apply the material, but also provides additional internet resources to access other information in the field of nonprofit management and fundraising.

I would definitely purchase additional resources from this author again.

I also use this book as a textbook in a fundraising class and the students consistently rank this as a great learning tool and resource that they will use in their careers. Excellent real-life examples and practical knowledge on every aspect of non-profit fund development.

Ciconte's book is insightful and thorough. This new edition is especially helpful, especially for the purposes of this reviewer, when it comes to Internet applications and computer programs. A well-written and fairly current fundraising resource guide.

I liked this book a lot. It's a big book with 8.5xll inch pages with the small text formatted into two columns per page. It covers a broad spectrum of fundraising for nonprofit topics: annual giving programs, board development, sponsorships, special events, major gift solicitation, planned giving, and capital campaigns. I suspect this book will be of tremendous help to anyone trying to develop a successful fundraising program for their nonprofit. Also, the reader is informed that it has been used as a textbook in various classes on fundraising.

My favorite chapters were (1) philanthropy, (2) roles of players, (3) the development office, (8) prospect research, (14) capital campaigns, (15) planned giving, (17) fundraising consultants, and (18) career options. The chapters are purposefully short, but they provide wonderful introductory material on their topics. Bibliographic material is provided so the reader can easily locate material that covers these topics in more depth.

I thought Chapter 4 (technology) was weak. I got the impression from reading it that I was reading a term paper from a high school student. I didn't feel as thought the authors were writing from firsthand experiences. Why were calculators and adding machines added to the list? Anybody who uses MS Office or similar program would know to use a spreadsheet program to do what a calculator or adding machine would do. Bottom line: this chapter could have been greatly improved so a nonprofit can save major bucks. Also, workers today are expected to know how to use a PC and the software that runs on it. If they can't, then don't hire them. NEVER consider paying someone to train them how to use a PC!

I had problems with chapters 5, 6 and 7. I thought Chapter 5 should have been much more detailed as to what a fundraising plan includes and how to design one. This was not done. And I thought Chapter 5 also should have covered direct mail, telemarketing, and the importance of building relationships as elements of a good fundraising plan. Then chapters 6 and 7 could have picked up where Chapter 5 left off. As these chapters are currently written, there really is no connection between the three - and in my humble opinion I think there should be.

I would reorder chapters 8 and 9 so the material on prospect research is covered after the reader is introduced to major gift fundraising. It just seems more logical to me to do it that way.

Chapter 13 could be improved a bit. Nonprofits waste a considerable amount of money on having fancy brochures created. And the authors seem to condone this. Today so much money and volunteer time can be saved by posting online in the form of Web pages what used to be printed. In the old days for-profits used to create fancy brochures. Now they give the prospect a business card with a Web site address on it. The prospect goes online to examine the relevant Web pages. Nonprofits can do the same thing. Why weren't Web sites covered in Chapter 13 (publications)? You try creating the content for a Web site and you will learn real quickly that Web sites are electronic publications.

And then there is Chapter 16. I'm not sure why this one was included. Sounds like membership organizations (trade associations) do their fundraising in a very similar way to church fundraising. It doesn't take rocket science to line up the congregation and hose them down for gifts. The same holds true for trade associations. I think I would have left this one out.

Even though I am somewhat critical of this book, I admit that I am being picayune. I am just rambling the thoughts that flipped off the tip of my tongue. This book is big, heavy, and full of good content. Give it a read. It will probably help you immensely in putting together an annual giving program for your nonprofit. Always remember that successful fundraising begins and depends on a good Board. 5 stars!

Using this book as "the" textbook for a UCSD Extension class on Fundraising Introduction and Processes; The course is the first required course for a Certificate Program in Fundraising and this is the text book selected. Very in depth, overview of fundraising, annual giving campaigns, special fundraising events, planned giving, grant-writing etc. Covers it all in depth and simple to understand. Great book! Plus its way cheaper thru Amazon than in the UC bookstore ;-)

Timely! Fundraising on the internet is the next level of fundraising for non-profits, and this is an excellent way to get started!

A fantastic collection of resources! Warwick, Hart, and Allen brought together an amazing array of experts to assemble a practical, hands-on book full of interesting case examples. As an application service provider working almost exclusively with non-profits, we found the book particularly useful as a source book for guidelines and best practices. Our clients who have read the book were enthusiastic about everything from the specific strategies to the fundraising tips.

This is an all-encompassing, basic guide that makes fundraising on the Internet accessible to the most inexperienced nonprofits but gives insightful advice to veterans. I wholeheartedly recommend the book and plan to make this required reading for our customers and employees.

If the events of Sept. 11th proved anything it is that fundraising via the Internet has come of age. Witness the incredible success of online fundraising by many of the nation's top relief agencies. Now, nonprofits across America are saying not if they will adopt on an online fundraising presence but how fast they can tap into this new technology in ways that meet an agency's needs but stay within their budget constraints. Fundraising on the Internet, 2nd Edition, could not have come out at a more opportune time. As the editor of a weekly on-line email newsletter directed at nonprofits throughout Arizona and the Southwest I was particularly impressed with the chapters on recruiting and renewing donors online. I can always stand to learn more about effective recruiting and promotion techniques to build an even bigger sense of community between our donors who, as the book carefully explains, are much more likely to open an email or click on a website before calling us or responding to a survey they receive in the mail. At almost 300 pages this book is a bargain. The authors do not shy away from providing any number of resources that can help a nonprofit create an Internet presence or expand upon whatever success they have already achieved with their online constituents. The book also includes 4 case studies and a number of resources including such important topics as ethical online fundraising standards and practices and how to use the Internet to both promote and manage donor advised funds. I heartily recommend this book. The authors have spent considerable time and energy to provide a definitive text on this most important subject.

This collaborative effort is well-written, fast-paced, and extremely up-to-date. Each chapter is on a different aspect of Internet fundraising, written by a different author. Speaking from personal experience, this book has been extremely possible in our own business of helping nonprofits raise funds online. We recommend it to any nonprofit who wants to take advantage of the net.

Very useful for organizations working with an interactive agency to imporve their efforts on the web...

Audit yourself with the tech from Advance Procedures and Axioms. Run secondaries, lock scan, and other advanced tech.

I am only half way through this book, and already I have read more truth here than I've ever read elsewhere. And believe me, I've read all the self help books. L. Ron Hubbard is a true genius and certainly one of the most important teachers in this history of mankind, period. Get this book, it will change everything.

I used the techniques from one chapter to quickly recover from a fall on concrete, where I hit my head, and a personal sorrow. I handled the physical aspects separately from the fall and on the memory of both was able to resolve the pain and sorrow so now I can think about it easily--as easily as normal memories. Thank you, L. Ron Hubbard. It works. Get it. Try it. Use it.

This book is very helpful but not necessarily a walk in the park to use. It's all about weeding through various things that make life difficult and how you can work your way to a better state of mind. You have to be willing to work for it and if you follow the steps in the book, you get amazing results. If you don't do what it says in the book or only do it half-heartedly, you really don't get much out of it. I give 5 stars because it really does deliver. In using the book, sometimes you have to examine things about yourself that aren't so easy to face. Once you push through those things using the book, it's pretty beneficial.

This book is for those who are in the need of change in their lives. It isn't about money; it isn't about winning friends and influencing people. It is a self-help book for those people who want to change the conditions of their life by viewing their goals and problems and past situations that relate. It gets a person better acquainted with himself.

It was written many years ago, but the techniques work IF one reads the book throughally and applies each step. The author is deceased, and the book is not published by the author but by the
LRH Library which is run by the Religious Technology Center which is a [type of religion]corporation.

There are many references in the book where you can go for further services--however, you might search out alternatives on the Internet, because there are individuals in what is called the "FreeZone" who can deliver services, too. If reading this book makes you want "more" then shop around.

In this Handbook for Preclears the dynamic principle of existence, which is "survive" is introduced. It is an important datum, because it is what all things have in common...it is the common demonator of existence. Of course, there are degrees of survival from bare to successful, but the datum gives one a way to look at things.

That isn't the only datum that is useful in this book. It isn't a good book for someone who just skims the reading material and doesn't throughally apply the exercises. That is why I rate it a 4 star instead of 5--...

If you're looking for the nuts and bolts of what made the WW2 German army, this is the book. A very nice overview of the entire military machine. As a historian and WW2 German reenactor I liked the coverage of military tactics from army to platoon, as well as the coverage from tanks and airplanes to individual field gear. Weapons, boots, bread bags, radios and all the field gear are covered along with lesser known machines like field kitchens and bread makers! Highly recommended.

Totally comprehensive review of everything about the Wehrmacht from their biggest guns down to their canteens. Massive review of the organizational structure of all elements from the leadership down to breakdowns of divisions, tactics, etc...The claim on the back that Marshall might have known more about the Wehrmacht than Hitler seems plausible. This is a real gem.

An absolute must have for anyone interested in the German military of World War II. A very technical guide that does not waste time with flowery documentation.

This is the ultimate guide to German forces in the Second World War. Although produced late in the war, it covers the old type of infantry division. I thought that was a nice touch. This book teaches us not only about Germans, but what their contemporary counterparts were thinking. Want to crawl around indide the heads of American Intelligence Officers from another era? This is the book.

This an outstanding book of facts and data whose main scope is the German Army. Although the name of the book refers to the whole German armed forces in reality the coverage is wide for the Army, light for the Air Force and almost non-existent for the Navy. The information it contains is extremely detailed (in particular in tables of organization and equipment of many divisions) and on the whole very accurate (although not without the ocassional flaw: a schwärme is referred as a tactical unit of 5 airplanes but in reality was a 4 airplane unit).
Although it provides information from 1939 to 1945 the information relating to the tables of organization, tactics, equipment and uniforms refers mainly to the period 1944-45.
For example, you can find the TO&E of an army and SS panzerdivision in 1944 but not in 1939 or 1940.
Also, it is important to note that due to the nature of the book it is mainly a WHAT and HOW book (provides data and factual information )but is not a WHY book. That is, you will notice that a motorized infantry battalion differs organizationaly from a regular infantry battalion but it is not explained WHY. Other books give the explanation. This is not a problem with the book, it is just its scope. Overall it is a highly recommended book for anyone interested in the details that are not covered in most WW2 books.

Frances Hesselbein is currently editor-in-chief of Leader to Leader quarterly. Previously, she served as CEO of the Girls Scouts of the USA and then as chairman and founding president of the Leader to Leader Institute, formerly the Peter F. Drucker Foundation for Nonprofit Management. Her published works include this book as well as The Leader of the Future, co-edited with Marshall Goldsmith and Richard Beckhard; The Leader of the Future 2, co-edited with Goldsmith; and Be*Know*Do (an adaptation of the U.S. Army's leadership manual) to which she and General Eric K. Shinseki (USA Ret.) co-wrote the Introduction.

In his Foreword to this book, Jim Collins observes that Frances Hesselbein "grasped a central paradox of change: the organizations that best adapt to a changing world first and foremost know what should [begin italics] not [end italics] change. They have a foxed anchor of guiding principles around which they can more easily change everything else. They know the difference between what is truly sacred and what is not, between what should not change and what should always be open for change, between `what we stand for' and `how we do things'...Equally important, she exercised the discipline to say no to opportunities that did not fit the central mission." This brief excerpt from an uncommonly insightful analysis of Hesselbein's numerous and substantial contributions to knowledge leadership help to prepare the reader for the 19 essays that follow in which Hesselbein shares what she has learned about leadership that understands the importance of knowing that leaderships is much less about what one does, and much more about who one is.

The essays originally appeared over a period of three years, 1999-2002. After re-reading them, Hasselbein observes, "I found that I believe even more passionately in the whys [of leadership]: the values, the principles, the beliefs that define who we are, what we believe, what we do, and how we work with others, our fellow travelers on a shared journey to leadership in an uncertain world." In this volume, of all the challenges that CEOs face, she identifies those that have little to do with managing the enterprise's tangible assets (important though as they obviously are) and everything to do with monitoring the quality of leadership, the work force, and relationships.

More specifically, the "`how to be' leader knows that people are the organization's greatest asset and in word, behavior, and in relationships she or he demonstrates this powerful philosophy...builds dispersed and diverse leadership - distributing leadership to the outmost edges of the circle to unleash the power of shared responsibility...holds forth the vision of the organization's future in compelling ways that ignite the spark needed to build the inclusive enterprise...and [meanwhile] knows that listening to the customer and learning what he or she values - `digging in the field' - will be a critical component, even more so in the future than today."

My take on all this is that Hesselbein fully understands and appreciates the value of "know-how." Her key point (if I understand it) is that effective leadership can be provided only by what Bill George characterizes as "authentic" people: those who consistently demonstrate the values, the principles, the beliefs that define who they are, what they believe, what they do, and how they work with others. As George describes them, they demonstrate "the highest integrity, [are] committed to building enduring organizations...have a deep sense of purpose and are true to their core values...have the courage to build their companies to meet the needs of all stakeholders, and recognize the importance of their service to society."

Both Hesselbein and George are convinced, and I wholeheartedly agree, that the greatest leaders are those who develop and then sustain authentic leadership at all levels and in all areas of the given enterprise. Moreover, they are determined to be "good citizens." As Hesselbein explains, they believe "that the community is as much their business as is the business of their enterprise. They dedicate the same commitment to this job, the same forecasting, planning, marketing, and mobilization of energy and initiative, that they dedicate to building the enterprise within the walls."

Make no mistake about it: These are formidable challenges that Hesselbein poses to those who aspire to be leaders. "All the how to's in the world won't work until the `how to be's' are defined, embraced by the leaders, and embodied in every action, every communication, every leadership moment." Indeed, she continues, there must be "leaders of character at every level, leading the organization and the community of the future." Some may view that challenge as "unrealistic." It isn't. Others may view it as "idealistic." It is...and that is the most important lesson all of us can learn, not only from what she has written but from what she has been and continues to be.

Frances is a special and extraordinary role model who shares her insights and encourages others to reach for their maximum leadership potential. The creativity within her advice is engaging and inspirational. This is a great book for young leaders and those who are developing goals and a vision for their career and personal success.

Hesselbein on Leadership should be on all leaders "must read list". Frances has taken the multidementional, quantum complexity of leadership and given timely gifted guidence in language and concepts that are understood by the intellect in addtion to being rocognized by the soul.

Her thoughtful and thought provoking words are a call for the action of "being" not just "doing". Every sentence rings with truth and power. This is a book you will return to again and again.

This book was first mentioned to me at a Leadership presentation at one of the not-for profit organizations I serve, and then again a short while later at a UCI Graduate School of Management presentation by a local executive. This is a delightful small book filled with some good advice, pithy sayings and leadership insights. Hesselbein lives up to her reputation in this compendium of essays on Leadership. I rather like books of essays because often each chapter, or essay, stands on its own and can be read or re-read as the need arises.

Hesselbein writes in a clear and conversational manner that makes it easy to understand her point. But one should not be lulled into complacency while enjoying her most readable style for the insights to be shared are important and many. She points out with great understatement that "Leadership is a matter of how to be rather than how to do it." She offers as whole new way of organizing our enterprises as she explains "Managing in a World That Is Round." This book will find its best use for those managers looking for a metaphor or simple explanation to share with others in the organization such complex topics as organizational change, behavior, and interaction with the environment. It will be on my reference shelf for a long time to come.

Frances Hesslebein is one of the world's greatest leaders. In fact, Peter Drucker (no "easy grader") said that she was the most effective executive that he had ever met.
_Hesselbein on Leadership_ is a compilation of her wonderful essays (largely from the journal "Leader to Leader").
In a world where many leaders have gone for the "quick buck", it is gratifying to hear from someone who is interested in "doing what is right".
Her writing, like her leadership, is direct, honest and to the point. Unlike some leaders who specialize in slogans, she is someone who only writes about what she believes in and is willing to live.
Her work has the unique quality of being both timeless and refreshing.

My mother gave me this book after she read it. I am a high school senior and reading it gave me the chills. I could have been one of his victims! If my mother hadnt had an eye to see him for the predator that he is, I might have fallen into his grasp. Yes, I know who he is, even though the names have been changed. And I know a couple of the victims too. They are from a wealthy family in our town and did everything to hide after the news came out. This man ruined their lives forever. I want to see him punished but it will never happen unless somebody takes him to court. He thinks he is getting away with it. Someday, he is going to answer to the highest court and then what will he do???

This book is mysterious in that it puts you in the mind of Pamela, the main character/victim....yet you are shown what is going on behind her back. It is a shame that all these people were hurt by one bad man. I hope they all can get on with their lives and be happy once again.

This book helped me see how a predator gets his victims. It kept me on the edge of my seat because I could see Pamela walking around clueless about the priest's real activities. Having gone through a tortuous incident with someone I trusted, I could really relate to her story and wish her and the victims well.

I want to thank Ms. Amoia, who had the guts to finally tell the truth on the big bad church and how they are only looking out for their own pockets. I liked the "Suggested Reading" pages in the back of the book. I found many of the articles helpful to me, a former victim of sexual, mental and spiritual abuse. I really related to the poem in the front of the book. I am on my way to recovery and getting on my feet after many years of torture at the hands of someone I trusted. Finally, I am beginning to take back my power too. Thanks for writing this book Ms. Amoia and God bless you always. (...)

This book made me so angry, I could scream. How dare this priest do what he did to so many trusting persons???? I am glad the author decided to write about the victims so that something can be done about abuse in the church. It wasnt a book to be read for entertainment but for instruction and help. I would really like to know his real name. Why would the church keep him so safe and secure? I bet there are so many stories out there. To the author: keep writing!

Creativiteit, inspiratie, leiderschap en innovatie zijn woorden die iets hebben met het overspringen van vonken, vlammend vuur, enthousiasme en flow. Je zou dergelijke fenomenen zo graag tastbaar, meetbaar, stuurbaar willen maken. Slecht nieuws: dergelijke hot spots zijn niet te plannen of op te leggen; de maakbaarheid valt tegen. Goed nieuws volgens Lynda Gratton : ze kunnen wel gefaciliteerd, gekoesterd en ontwikkeld worden. Slecht nieuws: ondanks de in het boek beschreven succesverhalen van Linux, BP, Nokia, Toyota, en dergelijke, is de auteur wel zo nuchter om aan te geven, dat allerhande oorzaken voor het afkoelen, uitdoven of afsterven van hot spots kunnen leiden. Handle with care, dus.

Hoewel een literatuuropgave ontbreekt, Lynda Gratton wel de interdisciplinaire aanpak voor haar onderzoek en achterin in een appendix de gehanteerde inzichten uit de psychologie, economie, etc. aangeeft, kun je Hot Spots goed plaatsen in het verlengde van Peter Senge's Fifth Discipline (met name het systeemdenken is ook in Hot Spots uitgewerkt in diagrammen en toelichting), Meerwaarde-innovatie en de ideeën van Robert E. Quinn over de productieve gemeenschap. Kapstok om hot spots te kunnen laten ontstaan zijn - niet verrassend - aanstekelijke visie, doel en vragen. De conversatie aangaan (Peter Senge zou dialoog gebruiken).

Het ontstaan en voortbestaan van een hot spot is afhankelijk van de combinatie van vier factoren:
1. een `coöperatieve mindset': een geheel van overtuigingen en daarbij passende denkwijzen en houdingen dat de wil en het belang van hechte samenwerking tot uitdrukking brengt. Het eigenbelang of najagen van eigen succes, de basis van veel (andere) business en management modellen, is dodelijk voor een hot spot. Al te sterke individuele beloningstructuren ook. Terug naar de samenwerking.
2. Grenzen overschrijden: hoewel grensoverschrijdende samenwerking in de praktijk uiterst moeilijk valt te realiseren (tijd, competenties, andere werkzaamheden, work/life balance), geven succesvolle praktijkvoorbeelden (BP en Nokia) aan hoe belangrijk een dergelijke samenwerking is voor het ontstaan van innovatieve projectgroepen en Communities of Practice.
3. Aanstekelijk doel waar de participanten zich in herkennen en voor willen gaan, in woord en daad.
4. Productief vermogen: er moet wel wat uitkomen, en dus zijn afspraken over tijd, opleveringen en resultaten noodzakelijk. Conflicthantering is daarbij een noodzakelijke competentie.

Waar andere modellen de adoptie van best practices benadrukken, gaat Gratton een stap verder, namelijk erop wijzen, dat de 'signature processen' nog belangrijker zijn: de binnenwereld naar buiten brengen. Andere auteurs zouden het in dit kader hebben over organisatie DNA, het wezen van de organisatie, de missie, organizational story telling. Hierbij past leiderschap die inspireren, faciliteren, coachen en bruggen bouwen. De auteur biedt een aantal vragenlijsten aan om de as-is situatie rondom hot spots en de bijbehorende cultuur in de eigen organisatie inzichtelijk te maken. Natuurlijk worden zowel de lezer als auteur enthousiast bij het (h)erkennen van hot spots in 'echte' organisaties, al blijft het 'hoe dan' in de praktijkverhalen naar mijn smaak nog onderbelicht.

Zonder het boek of Lynda Gratton als zodanig op een voetstuk te willen plaatsen, bevestigen de onderzoeksresultaten het uitgeput zijn van modellen die alleen voor management van middelen, efficiency maatregelen, de harde kant van de business gaan en onderkent ze de noodzaak mogelijkheden voor innovatie en productiviteitsverbetering te zoeken bij de mensen en de eigen organisatie. Het sociaal en relationeel kapitaal is zeker bij de grote, internationaal opererende, uit diverse fusies en overnames samengestelde ondernemingen, of uitgebreider in het ecosysteem (allianties, partners, etc.) veel groter dan tot nu toe benut.

If you are contemplating to make your unit, your organisation and your environment more innovative, exciting and stimulating then "Hot Spots" is a must read.

The author, Lynda Gratton, a professor at the London Business School and a renowned authority on HR Strategy presents a concise yet compelling framework for promoting greater levels of cooperation towards the creation of positive energy, more productivity and innovation in the workplace.

The core of the book is most effectively presented in chapters 3 to 6 which dwell upon the four elements, the essentials to create a "Hot Spot" as under:

The first element towards the creation of a "Hot Spot" is towards "developing a cooperative mindset (where trust and a helpful attitude are a must).

The second element relates to the concept of "boundary spanning" (people working in and across groups, functions and business units for the sharing of knowledge through close/familiar colleagues/friends as well as acquaintances/associates.

The third element relates to an "igniting purpose" (working for an ambitious and overreaching goal/task - here the role of the leader, be it the CEO, the unit head and the team leader to inspire and motivate through asking difficult and purposeful questions is a crucial element and is further explored in Chapter 7).

Productive Capacity i.e. the fourth and final element is really about managing these groups and teams in terms of appreciating talents, about making and keeping commitments and in managing conflict and time.

The book also contains an excellently worded appendix that acts as a resource guide complete with diagnostic surveys for the creation of "Hot Spots." This section is in essence a mini workshop on "Hot Spots" and is a must read to be used by teams and colleagues alike.

The book's underlying message is crisp and most relevant yet seemingly difficulty to apply in the real world of organisational life i.e. for organisations to flourish and create value, processes need to be created and fostered towards the building of partnerships and alliances; an essential prerequisite being an collaborative mindset existing amongst it's people.

Professor Gratton's treatise on "Hot Spots" makes for a very interesting read and is quite inspirational backed by a decade of research on some of the top-performing organisations the world over (BP, Goldman Sachs, Nokia, Ogilvy One to name a few).

Readers are also urged to read two of her earlier excellent and inspirational works - Living Strategy (2001) and The Democratic Enterprise (2004) which complete this trilogy (wherein Hot Spots is the third).

A highly recommended read for all in the corporate fraternity.



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The fundamental equation "Hot Spots = (Cooperative Mindset x Boundary Spanning x Igniting Purpose) x Productive Capacity" is the organising principle of this book. All material is very well organised to illustrate and support this insight. The style is conversational and authoritative. There is a lack of pretension that is refreshing in business literature. The material is supported throughout by real life examples. My favourite is the `Truffles' initiative at OgilvyOne. There are many other examples across many industries.

Professor Gratton uses language in a way that reinforces the main messages and makes concepts memorable: `Signature Processes' describe activities that powerfully convey a company's character and passion; `Boundary Spanners' move in many worlds, share information and connect people. `Big Freeze' and `Country Club' describe sub-cultures unlikely to produce hotspots!

Appendix A contains some fabulous material to help readers interested in creating their own `hot spots' - including many diagnostic questions and ways to map your system. Go on......treat yourself....... you deserve it!

HOT SPOTS: WHY SOME TEAMS, WORKPLACES, AND ORGANIZATIONS BUZZ WITH ENERGY - AND OTHERS DON'T packs in details on what differentiates a thriving, busy organization from a stagnant one, and will find a special place in the busy manager's bookshelf as a basic reference to understanding organizational dynamics. Lynda Gratton has spent a decade uncovering and analyzing what contributes to Hot Spots: her research has uncovered four basic qualities and organization needs to support the creation of Hot Spots of excitement and cooperation. HOT SPOTS is key to building a strong, collaborative organization and shouldn't be missed.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

I've been involved in just a few of what Ms. Gratton calls Hot Sports. These were projects that somehow gathered together a group of people totally dedicated to success. They were good people, working at the limits of their capabilities and an amazing amount of work was accomplished in a very short time.

I had never realized that this would be the subject of academic study, or that it could be managed to occur as part of a regular business environment. Ms Gratton says that there are four criteria that must come together to make a Hot Spot work:

A cooperative mindset: when people are excited, willing, eager and able to work together
Boundary spanning: with people fromdifferent backgrounds, skill sets, and outlooks combine their expertise in new ways
Igniting purpose: there must be a question, task, vision that creates a shared goal
Productive capacity: people must be able to work together, resolve conflicts, and manage the rhythm and pace of their work.

Written by Jeffrey Zoul, a principal with 20 years of teaching experience in the elementary, middle, and high school levels, Improving Your School One Week at a Time: Building the Foundation for Professional Teaching and Learning is a week-by-week guide to fostering better living, working, and study conditions in any school. Each week recommends addressing a different topic - from school safety to strategies for English as a second language students to test taking considerations, adopting a focus toward homework as small amounts of meaningful work rather than large amounts of busywork, improving communication between teachers and parents, and much more. Improving Your School One Week at a Time is a complete, user-friendly yearlong manual by itself, yet comes with a bonus - those who purchase a copy may enter a code online to download each of the "37 Friday Focus" memos from the publisher's website, and then customize them to apply to the specific needs and context of one's school. An invaluable step-by-step resource.

Dr. Zoul's Improving Your School One Week at a Time is an excellent resource for all educational professionals. The text is engaging and the incorporation of staff reflections makes this book truly unique. Zoul demonstrates how respect for and belief in teachers promotes a culture of professional sharing. Teachers are given the opportunity to share their ideas through Friday Focus correspondence, and the result is a wealth of knowledge and expertise all under one roof.

This book will benefit adminisatrators and teacher leaders. It is a quick and easy read. The book should be used as the ABCs or basic building blocks of a successful PLC. The weekly Friday Focus articles are a collection of ideas that can strengthen or spring your PLC to the next level. The Friday Focus articles reflect the empowerment, knowledge, and passion of these teachers' unrelentess quest to do whatever it takes to teach, inspire, and motivate students. The Friday Focus collection produces a balance of best practices and personal ancedotes with a blend of humor, practicallity, dedication, and determination. Overall, it exemplifies a successful and productive PLC in action.

What an amazingly simple yet brilliant idea! A MUST read for passionate educators and administrators from all levels that are seeking great ideas that will positively affect school climate from top to bottom.

This book, written by Dr. Jeff Zoul and his esteemed teaching staff, is full of insight and wisdom gained over many years of collective experience. It is obvious that student learning and creating a world-class school is their focus on a daily basis.

What would it be like if ALL children could attend a school like Otwell Middle School? No doubt, the possibilities would be endless!

Improving Your School One Week at a Time is an excellent book for a school leadership team to read together for a book study. It is practical yet thought provoking. Each chapter delves into different educational experiences, methodologies, and strategies that will inspire a new educator or a veteran. Reading Dr. Zoul's educational experiences and those of his staff will leave you motiviated to teach another 20 years.......

Margaret