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  • November 1994
  • Background Note
  • HBS Case Collection

Why Bad Things Happen to Good Companies

By: Benson P. Shapiro, Adrian J. Slywotsky and Richard S. Tedlow
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:14
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Abstract

Describes the Darwinian internal and external processes that lead to poor performance from a previously well performing company. Demonstrates why any business design eventually fails and the role of organizational calcification and poor leadership in the failure. Also provides prescriptions to prevent and alleviate the problems.

Keywords

Leadership; Management Practices and Processes; Organizational Design; Failure; Performance

Citation

Shapiro, Benson P., Adrian J. Slywotsky, and Richard S. Tedlow. "Why Bad Things Happen to Good Companies." Harvard Business School Background Note 595-045, November 1994.
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About The Authors

Benson P. Shapiro

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Richard S. Tedlow

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More from the Authors
  • Can AI Really Help You Sell? By: Jim Dickie, Boris Groysberg, Benson P. Shapiro and Barry Trailer
  • The Emergence of Charismatic Business Leadership By: Richard S. Tedlow
  • The Sky above and the Mud below: Two Books about Steve Jobs By: Richard S. Tedlow
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