What Really Works : The 4+2 Formula for Sustained Business Success

Based on a groundbreaking study, analysing data on 200 management practices gathered over a 10 year period. Reveals the effectiveness of the 4+2 practices (4 primary and 2 of 4 possible secondary) practices that really matter –– the ones that, if followed rigorously, ensure sustained business success. With a new introduction by the authors.

With hundreds of well–known management practices and prescriptions promoted by consultants and available to business, which are really effective and contribute to the growth and continued success of a company? Which do little or nothing? Based on the "Evergreen Project," a massive, 5 year study involving the business school faculties of ten universities, the authors set out to find the management practices that truly promote long–term growth and success. Their findings will revolutionize the art and practice of business management.The book shows that there are essentially six management practices that all successful companies must master simultaneously. They range from focusing on a strategy of growth to maintaining the depth and quality of human talent in the organization.

William Joyce is professor of strategy and organization theory at the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.

Nitin Nohria is the Richard P. Chapman professor of business administration at the Harvard Business School.

Bruce Roberson was a partner with McKinsey & Company for eleven years. He recently took a senior position with a new management team undertaking the turnaround of a major corporation. In his managerial role, Roberson is vigorously applying the concepts revealed in What Really Works.