Introduction

So, here we are at the start of our journey in the foothills of the Management library. We must be prepared for what lies ahead. We begin by checking our backpacks, making sure we have enough food and clean socks. We coil our ropes and fix crampons onto our boots. Most importantly we test our compasses and follow the contours of the itinerary on our maps. We know where we want to get to but it is not entirely clear how we are going to get there. The lines on the map look solid and reliable, but the reality of our journey may be very different. There are bound to be some unexpected pitfalls and setbacks. There may be sudden strong winds, violent storms, hidden crevasses, landslides and avalanches. We might not all make it. As we look up to the peak of Ideology, it is hidden by clouds. Maybe it doesn't really exist after all? There is only one way to find out. Our guides on the first stage of the journey are very experienced. Charles Handy is a veteran in the field of understanding organisations. He will be an invaluable source of wisdom, knowledge, theory and practical skills. He knows everything there is to know about Management. Don't be afraid to ask him any questions that cross your mind – even those that might seem trivial or ‘stupid’. Those are often the best kind of questions. Gramsci is also on hand if you have some more detailed or specialist queries. If you don't immediately understand his answers, don't worry, everything will make sense by the time we reach base camp.