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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

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    Macy's: Evolution in the Sunshine State

    By: Boris Groysberg, Das Narayandas, Benson P. Shapiro and Olivia Hull
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    Wiikano Orchards, Spreadsheet for Instructors (Brief Case)

    By: Benson P. Shapiro and Katherine B. Hartman
More from the Authors
  • The Sky above and the Mud below: Two Books about Steve Jobs By: Richard S. Tedlow
  • Macy's: Evolution in the Sunshine State By: Boris Groysberg, Das Narayandas, Benson P. Shapiro and Olivia Hull
  • Wiikano Orchards, Spreadsheet for Instructors (Brief Case) By: Benson P. Shapiro and Katherine B. Hartman
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