Jim Collins’ book Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t is a cornerstone of organizational excellence, focusing on principles that transcend industries. While the book was written with a business context in mind, its principles are equally applicable to performing arts organizations, where discipline, expertise, and strategic decision-making are paramount.
From Good to Great: The Core Principles
The core principles of Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t are Level 5 Leadership, the Hedgehog Concept, disciplined people, disciplined thought, and disciplined action. Level 5 Leadership refers to leaders who blend personal humility with professional will, putting the organization’s success above their own. The Hedgehog Concept emphasizes finding a simple, clear, and focused mission that aligns with the organization’s strengths. Disciplined people, thought, and action are about ensuring everyone is committed to the mission, thinking rigorously about decisions, and executing with precision.
The Discipline of Expertise in the Arts
In the performing arts, expertise is fundamental. Whether it’s in artistic direction, stage production, or audience engagement, organizations must have a clear and focused mission to achieve excellence. However, this expertise often does not extend to areas that distract from this mission, such as in-house program book publishing.
Program Book Publishing: A Necessary Evil?
Program books are vital in the performing arts, offering valuable information and serving as a marketing tool. They provide insights into the performances, the artists, and the organization, enhancing the audience’s experience. However, producing them in-house can be resource-intensive and detract from the organization’s core mission.
Staying Disciplined in What You Know, Letting Go of What You Don’t
Outsourcing program book publishing can save time and resources, provide specialized expertise, and enhance the final product. By focusing on their core mission and leveraging external expertise, performing arts organizations can achieve greater success.
Navigating the Path to Excellence
The principles outlined in Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t are invaluable for performing arts organizations looking to achieve excellence. By staying disciplined in their expertise and making strategic decisions that support their core mission, these organizations can achieve greater success. Outsourcing program book publishing is just one example of how organizations can leverage external expertise to improve efficiency and focus on what they do best.
Remember, the journey from good to great is not a sprint but a marathon. It requires dedication, discipline, and a commitment to continuous improvement. With the right approach and a willingness to adapt, any performing arts organization can become truly great.
Onstage Managed Program Book Services can assist performing arts organizations in their journey from good to great. Our expertise in program books, whether all print, digital, or a mix, ensures a seamless transition for both the organization and its patrons.
