In this article I am sharing my learnings after reading ‘No Rules Rules: Netflix and the culture of reinvention’.
What is the book about?
In this book Reed, Neftlix CEO, introduces us how he set the ground for success to create an innovative culture. After seeing how companies such as Nokia, Blockbuster and Kodak failed to innovate, Reed tried a radical approach, and its success story it’s a source of inspiration to many other companies nowadays.
The book co-author, Erin Meyer, is well-known for her work in the previous book ‘The Culture Map’, which has also been remarkably successful, and brings this ‘No Rules Rules’ to the next level with her cultural knowledge background.
What I liked about the book
- The book consistently highlights the pros and cons of each decision that was made and the context where it’s useful. So it’s clearly not a one-for-all approach, and it makes it easy for you to understand whether the strategy he adopted can fit into your organization needs. Still there are many points that can come useful to any culture, such as the initiatives and feedback framework, which the book exposes consistently through multiple examples.
- I like the well-structured approach, separated by phases where each phase connects with the next one in a very logical way. Starting by creating the talent density, continuing with the team dynamics, and eliminating controls gradually.
- I got plenty of learnings such as ‘seek to please the business goals, not your boss’. The live 360 feedback and the importance of honest communication from the company perspective, although it can come though at times. Last but not least, how to make of your organization a jazz band where anyone can shine and bring what’s best for the business at any moment.
What I disliked about the book
- Although I liked it’s structured approach, reality can come a lot more simultaneous and chaotic, more if you are part of a big organization, at some point the book seems to dismiss that part.
- At times the book can feel ‘excessively positive’ as the number of success stories overcomes the number of challenges broadly.
Summary and rating
After reading it I must say it’s the best book I’ve read during this year, so I totally recommend it to anyone who is looking to get a deeper understanding on how to foster a more innovative environment.
Rating 5/5
I consider the points to improve very minor.
Xavier Figueras 