Choice Review

While globalization has arguably brought many benefits to organizations, undeniably it has eroded many standard bases of competitive advantage. Firms that competed on innovative products or proprietary technology, for example, find that these advantages are only temporary. Davenport (information technology and management, Babson College) and Harris (director of research, Accenture Institute for High Performance) argue that competitive advantage from now on will result from efficient execution, and for this to happen, organizations must focus on analytics. The dictionary defines analytics as the "science of logical analysis." Logic, according to the authors, is based on using sophisticated statistical tools on voluminous data collected regularly by organizations. Thus, for example, Netflix (an online movie rental business) adroitly separates the regulars from the irregulars, keeps the regulars loyal to the organization by customizing the Web site to suit their tastes, and encourages additional business from the irregulars by offering them attractive financial incentives. Using examples from a variety of organizations (e.g., Procter & Gamble, the Boston Red Sox, and Amazon.com), the authors make a compelling case for decision making that is supported by numbers-based logic. Combining both theoretical rigor and practical advice, this is an immensely useful book for executives. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Professionals/practitioners and general readers. R. Subramanian Montclair State University