This breakthrough analysis of several advanced, exceptionally productive, and motivating organizational cultures is based on interviews with employees—from shop floor workers to CEOs—to discover precisely what makes them so effective. These positive case studies, illuminated by the executive perspective in each situation, tell fascinating stories of how these exciting cultures were formed, developed, or evolved to meet the challenges created by the firms' growth and success. Haasen and Shea also examine the recent history of four negative examples of conventional organizations that have imploded, regressed, suffered from malaise, or been sidetracked by their executives.

A new concept of employee ownership emerges from the studies, one that is not primarily financial in nature but instead revolves around the idea of joint responsibility for decisions and actions. That basis leads to more collaborative teamwork, less reliance on hierarchy, and a greater sense of involvement in key strategy formulation. Managers are transformed from out-of-touch bosses into important resources to their people. The work environment of these new corporate cultures is characterized by mutual respect and support. The result is a stimulating, fun place to work, which in turn leads to greater productivity and lower turnover costs.