Change or die! With this stark claim begins the journey through the corporate lifecycle. Why do
so many companies fail? Why do managers struggle to recognize change early or hesitate to take
vigorous action? Why - and how - must the traditional lifecycle concept be modernized if it is
still to provide valid orientation? In this essay Roland Berger CEO Burkhard Schwenker
analyzes the challenges facing managers today and explores their implications for good
management. Corporate management he argues must once again become more direct more personal
more entrepreneurial. His experienced and thoughtful analysis is complemented by insightful
candid interviews with renowned entrepreneurs and business leaders conducted by journalist
Mario Müller-Dofel. Finally Schwenker outlines an agenda calling for action in six specific
areas.
