Jac Fitz-enz examines the top 10 percent of the companies studied – the ones that clearly excel in profitability and employee retention- the Saratoga Institute discovers that they share there distinguishing factors that then become the 8 practices of exceptional companies. Those factors are:
1. A balanced focus or value-both human and financial
2. Long-terms commitment to a core strategy
3. Close linkage between corporate culture and systems
4. Massive two-way communication and information sharing
5. Effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders
6. Mutual support and collaboration at all levels
7. The will to innovate and take risks
8. Competitive passion and never being satisfied with the status quo.
There are examples in this book that demonstrates the factors in action like how they handle change management, cost reduction, employee turnover and quality improvement. It is to gain insights into your organization for improvements. The book confirms that putting people first and adhering to fundamental beliefs to what pay off in the long run.