Zen and Applications of Mission Design: The mission design process discussed through 21 narratives based on actual case studies. - Abridged
by Jan Griebe, Ph.D.

A Note from the Author:

"I have participated in the management of American businesses for many years. Like others, I have watched as the business system in this country has transitioned through various stages. Also, like others, I have developed traditional management methods and have participated in their implementation."

"Somewhere along the way, I realized that something more was going on behind the scenes than what was extractable from the tools and concepts that were available. Traditional analytical methods seemed to fall short of explaining the underlying dynamics that created what seemed to be uncontrollable mishaps. More often than not, they generated fixes that shook the organization to its foundation, only to find that when it settled, it continued to experience failures. Too often, many of those failures fit within the same patterns as those that occurred before the mission was assessed, TQMed reorganized, or re-engineered."

"Zen and Apple Masion Design powerful reading. Jan Griebe grabs the reader and propels him into the world of big business. In the style of John Grisham, she keeps the reader's attention by placing him in a real-life situation while she goes about solving the company's dilemma using The Theory of Missions™. In each case, Dr. Griebe shares the process of mission design with the reader."

"Since the principles of mission design can be applied to every business, this book is a practical tool for the business leaders of the 21st century. Enjoy this book and use it!"
—Brenda Ritter, writer, editor, and president, Ritter Consulting Group, Inc.

"Not only will this book speed up the career advancement of bright young professionals, it is thoroughly enjoyable reading. Regardless of the size or complexity of the organization or business, this book is a must!"
—Duke Cockfield, Rear Admiral (Retired)

"Jan Griebe has written a book that is insightful, thought provoking, and surprisingly entertaining. In a conversational way, she leads us from stuation to situation illustrating the importance and power that resides in a clearly articulated and executed mission. The lessons learned from this book are important whether you work in the private, public, or not-for-profit sector."
—Ed Wilczynski, I Have a Dream® Foundation

"The flexibility which Jan Griebe displays in facing very real business problems shows an understanding beyond many currently vogue business prescriptions! If only our education system could produce clear communication and analysis like this, we could greatly simplify many business organizations. Great for anyone mentoring younger people."
—John Frewing, President, Oregon Independent College Foundation

"This collection of 'short stories' provides the reader with great insights for 'Mission' management. Jan is to be commended for the messages and the presentation."
—Max J. Clausen, Director, Commercial Light Water Reactor Tritium Production, National Nuclear Security Agency, U.S. DOE

"This stimulating work provides readers with opportunities to learn through an interesting presentation of philosophy, theory, and case studies. It is an innovative, interesting and informative work."
—Barrie Hitchon, Managing Director, Harper Collins Publishers, Australia

"In a world dominated by management programs and acronyms, it's refreshing to see a book trying to connect with what moves people."
—Skip Orser, Group President, Energy Supply, Progress Energy