I was recently reviewing some of my previous notes and came across these principles from Lou Gerstner’s book (that describes the fascinating turnaround of IBM). The book is a must-read for anyone interested in organizational success. These principles seem to be highly relevant for any organization even today.

1. The marketplace is the driving force behind everything we do.
2. At our core, we are a technology company with an overriding commitment to quality.
3. Our primary measures of success are customer satisfaction and shareholder value.
4. We operate as an entrepreneurial organization with a minimum of bureaucracy and never ending focus on productivity.
5. We never lose sight of our strategic vision.
6. We think and act with a sense of urgency.
7. Oustanding, dedicated people (constructive impatience) make it all happen, particularly when they work as a team.
8. We are sensitive to the needs of all employees and to the communities in which we operate.

According to Lou, the FUNDAMENTALS for successful executives are:
1. They’re focused.
2. They’re superb at execution.
3. They abound with personal leadership.