Although we are not surprised by the uncertainty in everyday life, we are ready to believe that we can plan and analyze success.
This paradox denies every common-sense approach to strategy and planning. The author presents two simple yet provocative ideas. The first is that success is random, and the second is that with many specific activities, we can direct those coincidences to ‘work’ in our favor. Johansson argues that strategy, planning, and analysis can no longer guarantee success and excellence because today’s business is so complex that it largely depends on chance. Among successful people and organizations, we will find something in common. Major breakthroughs and turning points ‘clicked’ at moments when they were least expected, and players like Starbucks, Microsoft, or Nike knew how to recognize and capitalize on them. The author cites many stories of successful people and organizations from history that illustrate how we can expose ourselves more to random moments of ‘click’ and leverage the complex forces of success.
Frans Johansson
The Click Moment
Portfolio Penguin, 2012.
