“Lead and Disrupt: Mastering Innovation in a Fast-Changing World”

Summary of the Book

“Lead and Disrupt: How to Solve the Innovator’s Dilemma” by Charles O’Reilly and Michael Tushman is a groundbreaking guide for leaders navigating the challenges of disruptive change. This fully revised second edition builds on the authors’ decades of research and consulting experience, offering a proven framework for achieving ambidexterity—the ability to balance innovation and efficiency. With new examples, case studies, and insights, the book explores how mature organizations can foster discontinuous growth while adapting to rapidly evolving markets. From Microsoft to Amazon, the authors illustrate how leaders can align organizational culture, strategy, and innovation processes to thrive in the face of disruption.

What You Will Discover in the Book

The concept of ambidexterity and how it enables organizations to innovate while maintaining core operations.
Strategies to align organizational culture with innovation goals.
Real-world examples from companies like Microsoft, General Motors, and Amazon.
A framework for ideation, incubation, and scaling new growth businesses.
Insights into overcoming the innovator’s dilemma and leading through disruptive change.

Why Should You Read This Book

In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable business environment, leaders must navigate disruptive change to ensure their organizations survive and thrive. “Lead and Disrupt” provides a practical, research-backed approach to fostering innovation and adaptability. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or entrepreneur, this book offers actionable strategies to balance short-term efficiency with long-term growth. It’s an essential read for anyone looking to lead their organization through transformation and uncertainty.

About the Authors

Charles O’Reilly is the Frank E. Buck Professor of Management at Stanford University Graduate School of Business and a co-founder of Change Logic, a strategic innovation advisory firm. With decades of research and consulting experience, O’Reilly is a leading expert on organizational culture, leadership, and innovation. He has co-authored several influential books, including Winning Through Innovation and Hidden Value, and his work has been featured in top academic and business publications.

Michael Tushman is the Paul R. Lawrence MBA Class of 1942 Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. A renowned scholar in organizational behavior and change management, Tushman has co-authored multiple books and articles on innovation and leadership. Together, O’Reilly and Tushman bring unparalleled expertise to the challenges of leading disruption.

What People Are Saying About “Lead and Disrupt”

Charles O’Reilly and Michael Tushman:
“The ability to balance innovation and efficiency is the key to surviving and thriving in a world of constant disruption. This book provides the tools and insights to help leaders achieve ambidexterity and drive discontinuous growth.”
Praise for the First Edition:
“A must-read for leaders who want to understand how to manage the tension between exploiting existing capabilities and exploring new opportunities.” – Harvard Business Review