Maps for Modern Magellans: Charts for Captains of Commerce
Maps for Modern Magellans by Roger Anderson captured my interest for two reasons: the unusual title
for a business book and the book tag reading, every business can use a good map. In author Roger Anderson's own words, "This book is filled with maps, charts and tools to help you navigate the world of business."
Roger is a scientist by training, and his vehicles of choice--maps and charts--attest to that. To be honest, most of the visuals are useless to a word guy like me. I'm not sure I understood any of them. On the other hand, the text is written in a simple, easy-to-understand manner, and is full of good ideas, business strategies and tactics, definitions, case studies and questions that every entrepreneur needs to ask.
In my opinion, this book best serves entrepreneurs who don't have much business experience and newly promoted managers within any company. Those of us with lots of business experience in the corporate world and as entrepreneurs will find little new. However, those without experience will find lots to like about Maps for Modern Magellans. From the basic lesson that is often overlooked and causes more harm to business than one would believe to questions every business person must ask, to case studies that teach us both what and not to do. (By the way, the basis lesson: "Charge more than it costs." This is a lesson I frequently have to teach my clients.)
If you are an entrepreneur or a new manager buy this book. I recommend skipping Chapter 1, which seems a bit like filler, and start with Chapter 2, entitled Mind Your Own Business. Be cautious about some of the claims, such as this book will help you create great advertising. No book will do that. But pay attention to the concepts and to the life lessons that creep into the chapters. These are little jewels that help us better understand who we are and why we do what we do. Some of them may even convince you to change what you are doing, especially if you are unhappy.
Note: Roger Anderson provided a free preview copy of his book for me to review.
