Every day in communities across America hundreds of committees, boards, church groups, and social clubs hold meetings where they spend their time engaged in shouting matches and acrimonious debate. Whether they are aware of it or not, the procedures that most such groups rely on to reach decisions were first laid out as Robert's Rules more than 150 years ago by an officer in the U.S. Army's Corps of Engineers. Its arcane rituals of parliamentary procedure and majority rule usually produce a victorious majority and a very dissatisfied minority that expects to raise its concerns, again, at the next possible meeting.
Breaking Robert's Rules clearly spells out how any group can work together effectively. After briefly explaining the problems created by Robert's Rules, the guide outlines the five key steps toward consensus building, and addresses the specific problems that often get in the way of a group's progress. Appendices include a basic one page "Handy Guide" that can be distributed at meetings and a case study demonstrating how the ideas presented in the book can also be applied in a corporate context.
Written in a non-technical and engaging style, and containing clear ideas and instructions that anyone can understand and use, this one-of-a-kind guide will prove an essential tool for any group desperate to find ways of making their meetings more effective. In addition, neighborhood associations, ad hoc committees, social clubs, and other informal groups lacking a clear hierarchy will find solid advice on how to move forward without resorting to "majority rules" or bickering over who will take leadership positions. Bound to become a classic, Breaking Robert's Rules will changethe way you hold meetings forever, paving the way for efficiency, efficacy, and peaceful decision making.

Praise for In Peace and War

"A comprehensive, balanced, and compelling history of a first-class educational institution, and of the complex history it services."
--Sean T. Connaughton, Esq., Kings Point '83, Maritime Administrator

"A great read . . . an accurate and absorbing depiction of an institution I was proud to lead for seven years. The authors truly grasped the unique character of the Academy."
--Rear Admiral Thomas A. King, Kings Point '42, sixth Superintendent of Kings Point

"Evokes memories of the earliest challenges in establishing a maritime institution where future success embodies the Academy's motto acta non verba."

--Rear Admiral Lauren S. McCready, Kings Point Professor and Head of Engineering, 1942-1975

"Much more than an institutional history . . . a fascinating and informed portrait of the individuals and philosophies behind Kings Point."
--Captain Warren G. Leback, Kings Point '44, past Maritime Administrator and industry leader

"Well-written and meticulously researched . . . . A must-read for any maritime history buff."
--Captain Arthur R. Moore, Kings Point '44, author of A Careless Word . . . A Needless Sinking

"The best description of the merchant marine in the last seventy-five years, and the best account of why Kings Point became so important to our national security and economy."
--George R. Searle, past president, American Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II

With more than 10 million iPods sold to date, an unprecedented 250 percent stock value increase in just one year, and a net income increase of 530 percent, Apple has skyrocketed to dizzying heights of success. But the ride has not always been smooth, and the company's legendary cofounder, Steve Jobs, has seen it all. From its early unveiling of the unreliable, clunky $9,995 "Lisa" computer in 1983, to its recent staggeringly successful breakthrough product, the iPod, this company has not only reinvented itself many times over, but it also has revolutionized the entire computer industry. What are its secrets? Find out in "The Apple Way."

In today's fast-moving technology world, Apple has learned--often through hard-won wisdom--that you can't do it by yourself, no matter how smart you are. Markets move quickly, technologies grow complex, and too many intelligent people invest too much time and money in innovation. "The Apple Way" reveals the secrets and management principles that keep Apple ahead of the curve--including innovative product development, cutting-edge marketing strategies, sleek design and packaging, and a high-performance corporate culture. You'll discover how Apple combines consistency with continuity and follow-through, and balances vision with practicality.

Follow Apple's example and learn how to: Make the customer king Make the product king Break the marketing mold Build the learning organization

Although Apple is a technology company, this is not a story for computer buffs, but rather a book for managers who want to learn valuable lessons from both Apple's mistakes and triumphs--all of which have led to its continuing evolution and ultimate meteoric rise tosuccess. Because, for Steve Jobs and the visionaries at Apple, finding the future isn't enough--you also have to deliver it.

"We don't underestimate people....Rather than making a far inferior product for a hundred dollars less, we gave the people the product that they want and that will serve them for years, even though it's a little pricier. People are smart; they figure these things out." --Steve Jobs

Reveals the master plan behind Apple's revolutionary business model

"The Apple Way" divulges the secrets and management principles that keep Apple far ahead of the curve. Find out how to implement these and other winning strategies in your organization to trigger a technological and stylistic revolution of your own: Make the customer and the product king Balance manufacturing with delivery logistics Motivate and inspire people outside the company to do your marketing and public relations Invent new distribution channels Decide on your company image and stick to your guns Leapfrog the competition Learn from both successes and missteps

Through every step in his process, Reiss emphasizes how risk can be anticipated, managed, and significantly reduced.