Edge Rocks The Globe!
Let me begin by acknowledging a bias. Those who have followed my blog know how highly I think of Gerry Riskin of Edge International. Having watched Gerry in action and more recently had the chance to work with him, I think he operates in the rarefied air that most of us only dream of. He's that good. He advises firms around the world, and as the world continues to flatten, his global experience becomes even more valuable. And having shared several wonderful meals and some choice bottles of wine with Gerry, I am fortunate to have him as a friend.
Gerry's amazing blog, Amazing Firms Amazing Practices, has been a must-read blawg since I was first introduced to blogging in April 2005. But have you noticed the blogging contributions of Gerry's partners? If Rob Millard's The Adventure of Strategy does not grab your mind, nothing will. Another Edge partner, Ed Wesemann, writes the blog Creating Dominance. Like his Edge colleagues, Ed brings perspective, common sense and experience to bear in abundance. Another absolute must-read. (Both blawgs have been added to my list of "must-read" links.)
Just a few weeks ago, Edge published is Summer 2006 issue of Edge International Review. It is full of insightful, thoughtful and thought-provoking articles. And its free.
To top it off, I just received an email from Edge partner Patrick McKenna, who was kind enough to share with me a copy of his most recent work, an e-book titled First 100 Days: Transitioning A New Managing Partner. Its a quick read, but even experienced managing partners will learn a lot. Patrick's writings, which include First Among Equals (co-authored with David Maister) and Herding Cats (co-authored with Gerry Riskin), are among the leading works in the field. For a detailed review of Patrick's newest contribution, check out Bruce Marcus' summary and critique.
These Edge folks are rocking the world, one after the other. If you care about your firm, if your firm cares about its clients, if you want to be a success in the world of professional service firms, the people from Edge are people you must listen to. Their global perspective, experience, knowledge and common sense put them in a unique position to walk into a room of the most skeptical of lawyers and command attention and respect before saying the first word. Truly exceptional talent in a truly exceptional organization. I'm lucky to be able to work with them.
When Gerry ventures down under I'm sure he can make some very valuable contributions to the management of Australian firms. We'll be recommending Edge International Review to our network specialists as a must read!