7 Metaphors on Management

This text covers seven management metaphors that have been of great value to the author and his clients over the years in his roles as a father, manager and management trainer. Some chapters contain checklists or guidelines for action; others have short hypothetical case studies woven into the writing. These demonstrate either the principle ideas or how to use the metaphors as managerial tools. Many of the anecdotes and examples used in the book are drawn from the author's personal experience and consulting assignments in the West and the Arabian Gulf. The book is written with the practicing manager in mind. It contains many references to well-known publications but does not have an academic tone. In brief, the book summarizes up-to-date research findings and trends on a number of people management topics. It also describes the trends in management styles and practices in the Arabian Gulf over a period of 30 years, based on field research carried out in 1980, 1989 and 2002.