Model memos

/ 01 June 2009

Exploring the theories of management

The first impressions of this book, when quite literally judging it by its cover, are not good. It looks like a reference book, ideal for a library in a university, less so for attracting those running a business. Yet this judgement is to do the authors a great disservice.

Key Management Models performs the same function as a phrasebook would do for a traveller. It is there to provide a simple, effective answer to questions about management models.

The authors have all been active in the business field both academically and in consultation. They have specialised in the identification of the tools needed by managers to complete their respective tasks. Impressively, here they have distilled not only the examples but also explanations and contexts of 60 models, ranging from the classic SWAT analysis through blue ocean strategy to risk reward analysis via factory gate pricing, into just 236 printed pages.

Be aware, however, this is not a traditional management book in the style of Covey’s Seven Habits (which Key Models competently explains in three pages) as it cannot, by design, give the same depth to one subject as a whole book. But it does provide adequate explanations of models to allow them to be identified and then used.

With a variety of symbols and several appendixes for cross referencing, the book is ideal for the manager on a tight deadline. The graphs and pictures are simple but detailed enough to make their point and the authors have not been afraid to point out a flaw in a model, should one be apparent.

While the book was never intended as a non-stop cover to cover read, it is still an excellent resource to have to hand.

Reviewed by Stuart Burrell