Book: the Great Game of Business

Author:Jack Stack

Reviewed By: Shawn Dillon, CRS Operations Manager

Open-Book management is either something that excites a business owner, or terrifies them. In summary, you expose the workings of the company to all employees , with the presumption that knowledge of the finances will encourage the right decisions to be made.

This book is an extremely practical read, with concrete steps to change the way your company operates. It covers the basic education of your staff, bonuses , roles of staff and many other areas. It is written in a very understandable and clear manner, conveying information without being condescending or high-handed.

One of the greatest impacts that this book has had on our company , and may have on yours , is the structuring of a bonus program that revolves around the financial numbers that all staff are aware of. Chapter 7 , entitled " Skip the Praise- Give us the Raise" , will open your eyes to a very powerful , and empowering, bonus program structure. Also known by it's abbreviation "STP-GUTR" , which is pronounced Stop-Gooter" , this principle alone is worth the price of the book many times over.

While not perfect, this book is a critical read for any business owner looking to improve their business through the empowerment and education of it's employees.