In "The Innovator's Dilemma," Clayton Christensen unveils the paradox that drives successful companies to failure: their own success. He reveals how disruptive innovations, initially dismissed as inferior, can upend industry giants if they fail to adapt. With compelling case studies, Christensen illustrates why even the most formidable businesses can be blind to emerging threats. This thought-provoking exploration challenges leaders to rethink their strategies and embrace radical change. Are you ready to discover the hidden forces that could make or break your industry?
By Clayton M. Christensen
Published: 2015
"The most successful companies don’t always win."
Named one of 100 Leadership & Success Books to Read in a Lifetime by Amazon Editors A Wall Street Journal and Businessweek bestseller. Named by Fast Company as one of the most influential leadership books in its Leadership Hall of Fame. An innovation classic. From Steve Jobs to Jeff Bezos, Clay Christensen’s work continues to underpin today’s most innovative leaders and organizations. The bestselling classic on disruptive innovation, by renowned author Clayton M. Christensen. His work is cited by the world’s best-known thought leaders, from Steve Jobs to Malcolm Gladwell. In this classic bestseller—one of the most influential business books of all time—innovation expert Clayton Christensen shows how even the most outstanding companies can do everything right—yet still lose market leadership. Christensen explains why most companies miss out on new waves of innovation. No matter the industry, he says, a successful company with established products will get pushed aside unless managers know how and when to abandon traditional business practices. Offering both successes and failures from leading companies as a guide, The Innovator’s Dilemma gives you a set of rules for capitalizing on the phenomenon of disruptive innovation. Sharp, cogent, and provocative—and consistently noted as one of the most valuable business ideas of all time—The Innovator’s Dilemma is the book no manager, leader, or entrepreneur should be without.
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“The most successful companies don’t always win.”
The Innovator's Dilemma
By Clayton M. Christensen
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Clayton M. Christensen (1952-2020) was an influential American academic, business consultant, and author best known for his groundbreaking work on disruptive innovation. A professor at Harvard Business School, he published several seminal books, including "The Innovator's Dilemma," which transformed the way companies approach innovation and competition. Christensen's concepts have been widely adopted across various industries, making significant impacts on technology, healthcare, and education. He was also a sought-after speaker and advisor, sharing his insights with leaders and organizations worldwide. Throughout his career, Christensen remained committed to understanding how innovation can drive societal progress and improve lives.
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