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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Connected Company summary
Dave Gray, Thomas Vander Wal
Brief summary
The Connected Company by Dave Gray and Thomas Vander Wal provides insights and strategies for building a more agile and innovative organization in today's rapidly evolving business environment. It explores the power of networks and the importance of creating a connected company.
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Table of Contents
The Connected Company
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Connected Company
In The Connected Company, Dave Gray and Thomas Vander Wal introduce us to the concept of a connected company, a business that is designed to operate in a world of constant change and uncertainty. They argue that traditional, hierarchical organizations are ill-equipped to deal with the rapid pace of change and the increasing complexity of the modern business environment.
The authors propose that a connected company is one that is designed to be agile, responsive, and adaptable. It is a company that is structured more like a network than a hierarchy, with a focus on collaboration, transparency, and continuous learning. This structure allows the company to respond quickly to changes in the market, customer needs, and technological advancements.
Building a Connected Company
Gray and Vander Wal outline the key principles and practices that underpin a connected company. They emphasize the importance of a clear and compelling purpose that guides the company's actions and decisions. They also stress the need for a culture of experimentation and learning, where failure is seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a cause for punishment.
The authors also discuss the role of technology in enabling connectivity within the company. They argue that technology should be used to facilitate communication, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, rather than as a tool for control and surveillance. They also highlight the importance of data and analytics in helping the company to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances.
Adapting to Change
One of the key challenges for any company operating in today's fast-paced business environment is the need to adapt to change. Gray and Vander Wal argue that a connected company is better equipped to deal with change because of its flexible and decentralized structure. They suggest that companies should embrace change rather than resist it, and that they should be constantly scanning the environment for new opportunities and threats.
The authors also discuss the importance of customer feedback in driving innovation and improvement. They argue that a connected company is one that is deeply connected to its customers, and that it uses customer feedback to drive continuous improvement in its products and services.
Implementing Change
In the final part of the book, Gray and Vander Wal discuss the practicalities of transforming a traditional company into a connected one. They acknowledge that this is a challenging and complex process, but they argue that it is essential for survival in today's business environment.
They suggest that companies should start by developing a clear vision of what a connected company looks like for them, and then work on aligning their culture, processes, and technology with this vision. They also stress the importance of leadership in driving this transformation, and the need for a long-term, strategic approach.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Connected Company presents a compelling argument for why traditional, hierarchical organizations are no longer fit for purpose in today's business environment. The authors propose that a connected company, with its focus on agility, responsiveness, and adaptability, is better equipped to thrive in this environment.
They provide a clear framework for what a connected company looks like and how it operates, and they offer practical advice on how companies can start to transform themselves into connected organizations. While acknowledging the challenges involved in this transformation, they argue that the potential rewards – in terms of innovation, growth, and resilience – make it a journey worth undertaking.
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What is The Connected Company about?
The Connected Company (2012) explores how businesses can thrive in the digital age by embracing a more open and networked organizational structure. Authors Dave Gray and Thomas Vander Wal argue that traditional hierarchical models are no longer effective, and instead advocate for a more flexible and interconnected approach to business. Drawing on real-world examples, the book offers practical insights for companies looking to adapt to the new realities of the modern economy.
The Connected Company Review
The Connected Company (2014) dives into the idea of a fluid, adaptable organization that thrives in the digital age. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers practical strategies for building and maintaining a connected company, enabling businesses to stay relevant and competitive in today's fast-paced world.
- With insightful case studies and real-world examples, the book demonstrates how companies like Google and Amazon have successfully embraced connectivity to drive innovation and growth.
- Through its thought-provoking analysis of the changing business landscape, the book challenges conventional thinking and provides a fresh perspective on organizational design and management.
Who should read The Connected Company?
- Business leaders who want to adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape
- Entrepreneurs seeking to create innovative and customer-centric organizations
- Managers looking to understand the power of networks and connections in the modern business world
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The Connected Company FAQs
What is the main message of The Connected Company?
The main message of The Connected Company is the importance of adapting to the changing business landscape and embracing connectivity.
How long does it take to read The Connected Company?
The reading time for The Connected Company varies, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is The Connected Company a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Connected Company is worth reading because it provides insights into building a modern organization that thrives in the fast-paced world.
Who is the author of The Connected Company?
The authors of The Connected Company are Dave Gray and Thomas Vander Wal.
What to read after The Connected Company?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Connected Company, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Start with Why by Simon Sinek
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
- Good to Great by Jim Collins
- Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey A. Moore
- Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh
- Built to Last by Jim Collins
- Start-up of You by Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha
- The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau
- Inspired by Marty Cagan
- ReWork by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson
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