In 'Father, Son & Co.', Thomas J. Watson and Peter Petre unveil the intricate relationship between the visionary founder of IBM and his ambitious son, revealing the personal and professional dynamics that shaped one of the most powerful companies in the world. This compelling narrative delves into the evolution of IBM through the lens of family legacy, ambition, and conflict. Readers will discover not just the rise of a corporate giant, but the intimate struggles and triumphs of a family poised at the helm of technological revolution. With fascinating anecdotes and insider perspectives, the book offers a unique glimpse into the innovative spirit that drove IBM's success. Will the bond of family withstand the pressures of power and competition, or will ambition chart a different course?
By Thomas J. Watson, Peter Petre
Published: 2000
"The greatest challenge is not in making decisions, but in taking responsibility for the choices we make."
In this eloquent first-person account of a family drama that changed the face of American business, the man who transformed IBM into the world's largest computer company reflects on his lifelong partnership with his father--and how their management style and shared dedication to excellence united to create a unique corporate culture that became the blueprint for the entire technology boom. In the course of sixty years Thomas J. Watson Sr. and his son, Thomas J. Watson Jr., together built the international colossus that is IBM. This is their story: a riveting and revealing account of two men who loved each other--and fought each other--with a terrible fierceness. But along with the story of a father and son, this is IBM's story too. It chronicles the management insights that shaped its course and its unique corporate culture, the style that made Thomas Watson Sr. one of America's most charismatic bosses, and the daring decisions by Thomas Watson Jr. that transformed IBM into the world's largest computing company. One of the greatest business-success stories of all time, Father, Son & Co. is a moving lesson for fathers who dream for their children, as well as a testament to American ingenuity and values, told in a disarmingly frank and eloquent voice. Promising to remain an important business reference as we move into the next century, FATHER, SON & CO. takes a look at the management insight that helped to shape IBM's course and unique corporate culture. It looks at Watson, Sr., one of America's most charismatic bosses, and Watson, Jr., who spurred IBM into the computer age. Ten years after its original publication, FATHER, SON & CO. remains a uniquely honest book. Watson's willingness to write about the loving but ferociously combative relationship he had with his father and the turbulent battles behind some of IBM's most far-reaching decisions gives readers rare insights into the realities of leadership. -->
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“The greatest challenge is not in making decisions, but in taking responsibility for the choices we make.”
Father, Son & Co.
By Thomas J. Watson, Peter Petre
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Thomas J. Watson is an acclaimed author, known for his profound contributions to both the literary and business worlds. He is best recognized for his notable works, including 'Business Leadership: A Study in Contrast' and 'The Data-Driven Leader', where he intricately explores the intersection of management strategies and storytelling. Watson's writing style is characterized by a clear, engaging voice that encourages readers to think critically about the dynamics of leadership and innovation. With a background in both literature and corporate leadership, Watson synthesizes complex concepts into accessible narratives, making his insights valuable to both aspiring leaders and avid readers.
Peter Petre is an acclaimed author and journalist known for his compelling narratives and keen insight into the human condition. He is the co-author of the bestselling autobiography 'The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill: Defender of the Realm, 1940-1965,' a work that offers a profound look at one of history's most significant figures. Petre's writing is characterized by its meticulous research and engaging prose, making complex subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to his work on Churchill, he has penned notable books exploring leadership and resilience, drawing from both historical and contemporary sources.
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In 'Father, Son & Co.', Thomas J. Watson and Peter Petre unveil the intricate relationship between the visionary founder of IBM and his ambitious son, revealing the personal and professional dynamics that shaped one of the most powerful companies in the world. This compelling narrative delves into the evolution of IBM through the lens of family legacy, ambition, and conflict. Readers will discover not just the rise of a corporate giant, but the intimate struggles and triumphs of a family poised at the helm of technological revolution. With fascinating anecdotes and insider perspectives, the book offers a unique glimpse into the innovative spirit that drove IBM's success. Will the bond of family withstand the pressures of power and competition, or will ambition chart a different course?
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