Good to Great
Why Some Companies Make the Leap … and Others Don't
Jim Collins
Jim Collins’ Good to Great is a must-read for leaders, educators, and professionals striving to transform their organisations from average to exceptional. Based on a rigorous five-year research study, Collins and his team analysed why some companies make the leap to sustained greatness while others stagnate or fail. The insights are as relevant to schools and educational leadership as they are to the corporate world.
At the heart of Good to Great are key principles that distinguish successful organisations. Collins introduces the concept of Level 5 Leadership—leaders who combine personal humility with fierce professional will. These leaders prioritise their organisation’s success over personal recognition and build strong, lasting cultures. He also outlines the Hedgehog Concept, which helps organisations identify the intersection of what they are passionate about, what they can be the best at, and what drives their success.
Another vital lesson is the importance of getting the right people on the bus. Rather than focusing on a grand vision first, great organisations prioritise assembling the right team. This principle resonates deeply with school leaders and educators—without the right teachers, support staff, and culture, no strategy will succeed.
Collins also introduces the Flywheel Effect, demonstrating how consistent effort over time leads to momentum and sustained success. There’s no single defining moment of transformation—greatness is built through disciplined decisions and continuous improvement.
What makes Good to Great stand out is its clarity and applicability across sectors. While it draws from corporate case studies, its lessons are invaluable for schools, universities, and organisations looking to embed lasting excellence. For busy professionals, Collins’ research-backed insights provide a roadmap to meaningful, long-term impact. If you’re looking for a book that blends data with actionable leadership principles, Good to Great is essential reading.
