Book Review: ‘180 Business Hacks’ by Roel de Graaf

Book Title: 180 Business Hacks: Little Changes, Big Difference
Author: Roel de Graaf
Publisher: John Murray Business
Number of Pages: 208
ISBN: 978-1399811347
Date Published: Jan. 9, 2025
Price: INR 323

Book Review

Roel de Graaf’s “180 Business Hacks: Little Changes, Big Difference” is an insightful and engaging collection of unconventional business strategies designed to challenge traditional corporate thinking. The book presents 180 concise yet impactful “hacks” that offer new ways to approach common business challenges, emphasizing small but effective changes that can lead to significant improvements. By shifting perspectives and encouraging outside-the-box thinking, De Graaf provides readers with practical shortcuts that aim to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and overall business effectiveness.

Organized into nine themed chapters—Innovation, Strategy, Structure, Management, Analysis, Portfolio, Change, Impact, and Effectiveness—the book allows readers to either browse specific topics or flip through at random for inspiration. Each hack is presented in a succinct format, offering quick insights rather than lengthy explanations. Some, like “Flip the org chart and put the customer on top,” challenge hierarchical norms, while others, like “Write the press release before you start development,” emphasize strategic foresight. While the book does not provide in-depth case studies or extensive research to support each hack, it serves as a valuable primer for professionals looking for fresh ideas.

While “180 Business Hacks” offers a treasure trove of actionable insights, some strategies may not suit every business scenario. Certain hacks, such as “Give someone busy more work to do,” could be perceived as counterproductive, especially in an era emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being. Additionally, some hacks overlap or even contradict each other—highlighting the complexity of business decisions but requiring readers to use their discretion in applying them. De Graaf does not attempt to resolve these contradictions, leaving it to readers to determine which insights are most relevant to their unique circumstances.

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Despite its occasional shortcomings, “180 Business Hacks” is an excellent resource for professionals seeking quick, thought-provoking strategies to refine their approach to business. It is particularly useful for entrepreneurs, managers, and leaders looking for simple yet effective ways to foster innovation, productivity, and growth. While not every hack will be applicable in all situations, the book provides a wealth of ideas that can help readers break out of routine thinking and adopt more agile, forward-thinking business practices. In short, a small book with bog insights in small packets!

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