SIMPLE SCALING

The co-founders of a global consulting practice propose an approach to scaling small- and medium-size businesses.

The title of this debut guide is also the name of the authors’ business, so it will come as no surprise that McGurgan and Colvin highlight a scaling methodology designed and implemented by their company. The obvious sales pitch aside, there is considerable value in the thorough scaling framework freely shared by the authors. They make it clear from the outset that their approach is not for startups; rather, they address established SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) ready to grow exponentially with a focus on “establishing, refining, and standardizing the processes, which enable repeatable, scalable, and profitable business.” According to their research, “Almost 98 percent of SMEs fail to scale.” The book aims to help change that statistic; it describes a highly structured framework of 10 principles, each of which is explained in richly detailed chapters. The principles are neatly divided into three sections. A handsome, if somewhat complex, circular graphic ties it all together. “Inspire” covers mindset, vision, and employees; “Orientate” describes planning, process, and performance; and “Accelerate” concentrates on value proposition, geographic coverage, and collaborations with partners. The 10th principle, “Positive Growth Culture,” is embedded in the “Inspire” section to make the framework come full circle. This work displays both breadth and depth; McGurgan and Colvin offer a start-to-finish scaling process as well as nuts-and-bolts descriptions for each of the principles. The authors provide specific, well-founded guidance supported by citations from other sources. Numerous relevant examples appear throughout, and a substantial case study related to each principle is included at the close of every chapter. At times, the writing may feel a bit gimmicky. For example, there seems to be an overabundance of alliteration, acronyms, cleverly constructed phrases, and the like—but it is not at the expense of generally solid and highly actionable content. In all, this book delivers a serious, pragmatic approach to scaling a business.

Concrete, comprehensive counsel for business leaders.