ShanghaiDaily

GE writer: Adapt useful GE policies, don't just blindly adopt and copy
By Bill Rothschild 2007-11-20
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Dear Wan Lixin:
As the author of "The Secret to GE's Success," I wanted to clarify that my book is not about Jack Welch, but is a comprehensive strategic history and commentary about the remarkable 127 years of General Electric.
The book puts the Welch era in historical perspective and emphasizes that Jack was just one of GE's competent leaders. The book summarizes GE's success in one word: LATIN, which stands for Leadership, Adaptability, Talent, Influence and Networks.
All of these success factors are discussed and illustrated to include both GE's successes and failures.Leadership is just one of the five key factors and though it is important it must be viewed in the context of all five.
I agree with Larry Lang that size is not the most important factor.In the book, I emphasize that what has worked for GE may not be appropriate for other companies. I stress that the reader review the GE code of success and then determine what is appropriate for them. I stress the need to ADAPT and not just blindly ADOPT GE practices and strategies.I also provide an analysis of the current leadership and its strategies. I too am concerned that GE's focus on size ("GO BIG Strategy") and complexity are areas of concern.GE is a remarkable company and is an excellent case study, but like everything it too has its limitations.
If you wish to view my continuing assessment of GE and other companies, visit: www.strategyleader.com.