The Art of Action
by Stephen Bungay
Bungay's application of Prussian mission command to business: the gaps between plans, actions and outcomes, and how directed opportunism, telling people what to achieve and why, not how, closes them. Rigorous and one of the best strategy-execution books.
Read it if…
your plans are good and execution still fails.
See the book →
Skip it if…
you want a quick read; it is demanding.
Try instead: Descending into Greatness →
Three things you will actually use
- Close the knowledge, alignment and effects gaps.
- Communicate intent, not instructions.
- Allow freedom within boundaries.
Do this first
Rewrite one directive as intent (what and why) and let the team decide how.
Our verdict
Mission command for business.
See the book →
Compare with other Leadership books
Leadership by the Book
Ken Blanchard, Bill Hybels and Phil Hodges · Leadership
Servant leadership parable.
CLICK TO SEE
Browse all Leadership book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
As an Amazon Associate, WisdomDeck earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked “Click to see” go to Amazon. We are not paid for opinions, prices and availability are not shown here and change on Amazon, and we never see your purchase details. Nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice.