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Sun Tzu: The Art of War for Managers; 50 Strategic Rules |  | Authors: Sun-tzu, Gerald A. Michaelson
Publisher: Adams Media
New (38) Used (40) from $2.10
Rating:  33 reviews
Sales Rank: 8326
Media: Paperback
Pages: 224
Number Of Items: 1
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.6
Dimensions (in): 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.7
ISBN: 1580624596
Dewey Decimal Number: 658.4
UPC: 045079204591
EAN: 9781580624596
ASIN: 1580624596
Publication Date: January 1, 2001
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Product Description
Organized around 50 rules for strategic thinking, The Art of War for Managers translates the strategic wisdom of Sun Tzu into powerful 10-minute lessons to enhance your business and personal success. "Michaelson is Sun Tzu's foremost student and interpreter. He brings home the business relevance of this ancient military strategist in down-to-earth language." Al Vogl, editor of The Conference Board Magazine "Brilliant work! The useful commentary in The Art of War for Managers brings Sun Tzu's timeless wisdom to a new level." Gen. Bill Creech, Author, The Five Pillars of TQM
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| Customer Reviews:
Showing reviews 1-5 of 33
 Simple overview of business strategy November 15, 2009
PowerCrazy (USA)
Gerald Michaelson titles part one of The Art of War as a "New Translation" with "Manager's Commentary". The basis of Michaelson's book is a translation of a military strategy treatise written around 500 B.C. and according to the 1914 Lionel Giles translation, it is also the oldest military treatise in the world. But how does one take book written, in the sixth century B.C., that has been translated many times already, is specifically about war and make the information current and relevant to modern business strategy?
Using the original thirteen chapter construct of the translated book, Michaelson takes a simple approach and replicates the original titles for each chapter. The original chapter construct is followed but then Michaelson digresses to offer three to six distinct strategic rules for each chapter. Within that digression is a carefully executed explanation of each piece of ancient wisdom along with some alternative translations of the same strategy from other authors - including of course, Lionel Giles. The format is very easy to follow and offering alternative translations provides an interesting set of comparisons.
Where though is Michaelson's added value or differentiation? Why would one purchase Michaelson's book instead of one of the many other translations that are available? Within each of those three to six distinct strategic rules is an easy to read and understand modern example. Taking a war oriented strategy book and making it relevant to modern business is a challenge; it's at this point though where Michaelson offers his added value by providing a Manager's Commentary for each strategic rule and he does an excellent job.
 Sun Tzu: The Art of War for Business Managers November 9, 2009
R. Lines (Seton Hall)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I have read and heard of many business professionals trying to apply Sun Tzu principles of war to business leadership but never in such an in depth, coherent and eloquent manner.
The author several times equates business with war. I am not sure that the parallels can be drawn as easily as he asserts. This does not diminish the application of the principles of the book; however the idea that business is war is a bit misguided in my opinion. Business can be done with partnerships and comradery within an industry.
The book utilized numerous quotes. These seemed rarely helpful yet are definitely a fun addition that I approve of. In addition the multiple interpretations were not only useful to understand the material but also insightful as to how to view the passages and their applications. The examples the book draws on not only helped to clarify how the principles can be used but also lended great credibility to the belief that these lessons can be used in a much more peaceful environment than the battlefield.
Many lessons seemed like common sense, but are so commonly overlooked in today's world that it's about time they were written down so that business managers do put thought into these situations. For instance in chapter 6 the book mentions the advantages of taking the initiative. In this instance the firm will need skill preparation and information.Simultaneously it is common to not have enough time, resources or information. This seems simple but it is not often that a manager will think in these terms exactly.
The "Ten Minute" lesson format kept the book fast paced and did not become monotonous or tedious as some contemporary business writings seem to be.
10 minute chapters or lessons give a comfortable class like feel that I believe enhances learning. I thought this was innovative and a huge asset to Michaelson's book.
While I did thoroughly enjoy the book there were certain parts that seemed morally questionable. Business will probably never be a completely free of corruption or disreputable behavior however executives should strive to be more upright in their actions. Michaelson's book teaches that in war and business it is a fine tactic to take advantages of another's misfortunes, deceive for advantage and use spies. Chapter 7 in fact has a sub section on employing deception. If your troops or employees do not feel that these are acceptable tactics then, according Sun Tzu, you will lose. The first constant factor listed in Chapter 1 is "moral influence" troops and employees are better motivated and more committed at what they do when they believe their cause is righteous.
These actions may be palatable in war but do they have a place in modern business.
I would highly recommend this book to business students. As a graduate student with some work experience I find the lessons learned very functional and relevant to today's professional world. I also would say that the lessons are made simple enough so that an undergraduate or inexperienced business individual would have no trouble understanding the concepts or teachings presented within the book. I could assume that even the seasoned business leader could glean some new knowledge from the many teachings within or at least be entertained by the work.
Sun Tzu Art of War Managers September 3, 2009
Minann S. Black (Magnolia Springs, Al. United States)
Any one who is management needs to read this book!!! Read, think and then pick your battles before you talk! Every one in the management position (from the bottom up) needs to read this. It will save their job and many arguments in between with staff members up to the higher positions. Save yourself (and your job) by reading this. Minann
Art of War for Managers June 20, 2009
J. Ali
Excellent book! I bought two copies and gave one to my Manager as a gift. Master Sun Tzu's book should be required reading for people who are making a career in Corporate America. If you apply the principles you will become a winner. The Art of War - "It is a road to either safety or ruin, hence, under no circumstances shall it be neglected." - Master Sun Tzu
Great book June 7, 2009
A. Sabbah (Kuwait)
Sun Tzu: The Art of War for Managers is a great book that can make you understand Sun Tzu rules in much easier way within the business strategies.
Showing reviews 1-5 of 33
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