Execution
Execution is a business and leadership guide that emphasizes the importance of execution—the ability to turn strategy into action—as a key factor in a company’s success. First published in 2002, the book has changed the way we did our jobs by focusing on the critical importance of “the discipline of execution”: the ability to make the final leap to success by actually getting things done. Author Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan show how to link together people, strategy, and operations, the three core processes of every business. They demonstrate the importance of being deeply and passionately engaged in an organization and why robust dialogues about people, strategy, and operations result in a business based on intellectual honesty and realism. Execution shows you how to close the gap between results promised and results delivered.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Execution outlines three key processes for successful execution: people, strategy, and operations, stressing that leaders must be involved in all aspects of these processes.
The book highlights the importance of building a culture of accountability and alignment across the organization, with clear communication and tough decision-making.
The book argues that strong execution is a discipline that requires constant attention, focus, and active leadership involvement.
PRAISE FOR THE BOOK
“If you want to be a CEO—or if you are a CEO and want to keep your job—read Execution and put its principles to work.”
— Michael Dell, Chairman and CEO, Dell Computer Corp.
”Execution is key, and this book clearly explains what it means and how it brings together the critical elements of any organization—its people, strategies, and operations.”
— L. R. Raymond, Chairman and CEO, ExxonMobil
“Larry Bossidy recognizes how execution in business defines the true greatness of a company. He captures a lifetime of building winning formulas and puts them in a simple and practical context for executives at any level. Read it!”
— Ivan Seidenberg, President and Co-CEO, Verizon
”Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan offer a compelling leadership prescription, and it comes down to realism, discipline, and above all, great execution.”
— Michael Useem, Professor of Management and Director of the Center for Leadership and Change, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania