Description: Chandler argues that only with consistent attention to research and development and an emphasis on long-term corporate strategies could firms remain successful over time. He details these processes for nearly every major chemical and pharmaceutical firm, demonstrating why some companies forged ahead while others failed.
Brief description: Alfred D. Chandler, Jr., was Isidor Straus Professor of Business History at Harvard Business School.
Review Quotes: Chandler has written an account of the industry's turbulent century that is analytical and lucid...Chandler does a remarkable job of covering the development of two industries that changed the world in the 20th century. Over the years, I have read several books that depict the colourful story of individual chemical companies, but here is one that paints them all on the same canvas.--John Emsley "Times Higher Education Supplement" (4/29/2005 12:00:00 AM)