Good to Great:  By Jim Collins

Based on a five-year research project, Good to Great answers the question: “Can a good company become a great company, and, if so, how?” True to the rigorous research methodology and invigorating teaching style of Jim Collins, Good to Great teaches how even the dowdiest of companies can make the leap to outperform market leaders the likes of Coca-Cola, Intel, General Electric, and Merck.

Although this book primarily details large companies, it's full of ideas for small ones. Collins likens a business to a bus, and says that too many company leaders spend time worrying about  where the bus is being driven, when instead, they should be concentrating on who is on the bus!  Collins says that will determine your destination.

It's an interesting and easy read, and will be immediately applicable to any leadership situation.

EMA Drive Lines
November 2006