How Big Things Get Done

The magic and mystery of turning grand ideas into reality lies at the heart of How Big Things Get Done by Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner. Imagine having the insights to create successful, boundary-pushing projects while dodging the pitfalls that ensnare so many. From the rapid triumph of Apple's iPod to the staggering delays and costs that plagued London's Crossrail, this book explores why some ventures soar while others stumble.

Renowned Oxford professor Bent Flyvbjerg has devoted his career to understanding what differentiates successful projects from those that flounder. In How Big Things Get Done, he compiles decades of research, delivering deeply engaging and actionable advice. This book is not merely a theoretical treatise but a practical guide to mastering both large-scale ambitions and everyday tasks with equal efficacy.

Flyvbjerg unfolds his principles with a rich array of vivid examples, from the iconic construction of the Sydney Opera House to the imaginative marvels of Pixar films. With these tales of success and failure, he illuminates the path to bringing any ambitious project to fruition—on time and within budget. His research-based principles include:

Understand your odds. Know your chances to chart a path to victory.

Plan slow, act fast. Quick action can feel gratifying but is often misguided. Adequate preparation is key.

Think right to left. Start with the end goal in mind and work backward to determine the steps necessary to achieve it.

Find your Lego. Building something big starts with assembling the smallest components.

Master the unknown unknowns. Most people stumble over unforeseen challenges. Flyvbjerg shares how to anticipate and manage the unexpected effectively.

How Big Things Get Done is an essential read for anyone looking to navigate and excel in complex projects. Whether your ambition is as towering as a skyscraper or as modest as a small business venture, this book provides the insights and strategies needed to transform visionary ideas into stunning achievements.

Embrace the wisdom of Flyvbjerg and Gardner and discover how to turn the seemingly impossible into a reality, ensuring your projects are not just completed but triumphantly executed.