Art of Action: How Leaders Close the Gaps between Plans, Actions and Results

The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Leadership Classic offers a practical approach to leading a global company based on the mission command framework first used by the Prussian Army in the 19th century. The book, The Art of Action, by Stephen Bungay, provides a thought-provoking and fresh look at how managers can turn planning into execution and execution into results. By examining the army that built its agility on the initiative of its junior officers, Bungay shows business leaders how to build more effective and productive organizations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2021
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton General Division

The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Leadership Classic is a groundbreaking guide to leading a global company based on a practical and sensible approach first used by the Prussian Army in the 19th century. This approach, known as mission command, has been taught at HULT Ashridge International Business School for over a decade and has successfully transformed businesses across various industries, including pharmaceuticals and F1 racing.

Despite its age, the question of what managers should do remains a persistent challenge. However, Stephen Bungay reveals an old solution that is surprisingly effective and counter-intuitive. In his book, The Art of Action, Bungay offers a thought-provoking and innovative perspective on how managers can transform planning into execution and execution into meaningful results.

Drawing on his extensive experience as a consultant, senior manager, and respected military historian, Bungay delves into the history of the Prussian Army, which was renowned for its agility and effectiveness. He highlights how the army's success was built on the initiative and empowerment of its junior officers, providing valuable insights for business leaders seeking to create more efficient and productive organizations.

Through compelling anecdotes and practical examples, Bungay demonstrates how managers can apply the principles of mission command to their own roles and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of empowering employees, setting clear goals, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. He also discusses the challenges of managing complexity and change, and offers strategies for navigating these challenges effectively.

The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Leadership Classic is a valuable resource for managers and leaders looking to enhance their skills and achieve sustainable success in today's competitive business environment. With its timeless wisdom and practical insights, this book provides a roadmap for building more effective, productive, and agile organizations.

Weight: 524g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529376968