Category Archives: Thinking for Profit

New Article – Getting Under the Hood of a Flawed Budgeting Process

I recently wrote an article for Business Finance, “Getting Under the Hood of a Flawed Budgeting Process”. In the article I explain why most budgeting processes are inherently backward-looking, so companies wind up investing in yesterday, instead of tomorrow. I … read on

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Inc.com Names Islands of Profit to Its 2010 List of Best Books for Business Owners

Yesterday, Inc.com named my new book, Islands of Profit in a Sea of Red Ink, to its 2010 list of Best Books for Business Owners. Here’s what Inc. said: Islands of Profit in a Sea of Red Ink by Jonathan … read on

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What To Do When Half Your Company is Not Profitable

A few days ago, CNNMoney.com/Fortune posted a very informative review of my new book, Islands of Profit in a Sea of Red Ink. Here’s the review by Anne Fisher: What to do when half your company is not profitable By … read on

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The Power of Constant Strategic Innovation

Strategic innovation is the lifeblood of business growth and lasting profitability. It enables you to push the envelope of customer value creation, positioning your company as the strategic partner of choice. It also allows you to price higher, grow faster, … read on

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The Problem with Accounting

What’s the difference between profits and profitability? In most companies, a net income deficiency of 30% or more. Let me explain. Accounting information is at the core of virtually all of our business processes. It is axiomatic that accounting has … read on

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How Did Microsoft Become Microsoft?

First, a little quiz. Which company invented these cornerstones of the personal computer revolution: First personal computer First high-speed computer network First laser printer First graphical user interface (mouse, pull-down menus, etc.)? (The answer is three paragraphs down.) A few … read on

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Managing in a Deflationary Economy – A View From Malaysia

Today’s economic news features descriptions of our stalled economy, punctuated by concerns that we may slip into deflation. Most U.S. managers have not had direct experience with managing in a deflationary economy. This economic environment creates extraordinary challenges and requires … read on

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What are Bad Profits?

Yesterday, I had a lengthy conversation with the Vice President of Finance of a major company. He was immersed in the capital budgeting process, and wanted to discuss ways to evaluate investment proposals. Our conversation started with a discussion of … read on

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