The Power of the 2 x 2 Matrix: Using 2 x 2 Thinking to Solve Business Problems and Make Better Decisions

by Alex Lowy, Phil Hood

By studying the work of hundreds of the most original and effective business minds, the authors present a common architecture that illuminates exceptional analysis and creative performance. 2 x 2 Thinking is characterized by a fundamental appreciation for the dynamic and complex nature of business. The best strategists go out of their way to tackle dilemmas rather than merely solve problems. They use opposition, creative tension, iteration and transcendence to get to the heart of issues and involve critical others in finding the best solutions. The authors demonstrate how to apply the 2 x 2 approach to a wide range of important business challenges.

Genres: Business

352 pages, Hardcover

First published May 4, 2004

Reviews

[Jeff]

A very poorly written book. The author seems to want to write about just about anything but the subject matter. The examples are inadequate if not useless.

The 2X2 process might work for you, but you'll finding nothing beyond the obvious here.

[David Dam]

The idea of compiling 2x2 matrix is definitely interesting and worthy. However, you will find the authors try to persuade you that 2x2 matrix was the WAY that the brilliant actions was based on.
I was especially put off by the example of business strategies that the presented 2x2 matrix had nothing to do with what the decision maker had to consider (it’s like they made up the matrix on their own).
Besides the subjective arguments on the magic of 2x2 matrix in the apparent complex matters like business decisions, the authors did not have any criteria for the two axis, the most important thing in the matrix.
The two most valuable things in this book are the classification of 2x2 matrices, and the collection of commonly known matrices. Although note that some matrices are clearly outdated and can be replaced with ratios.

To be honest, not worth reading.

[Ravi Srivastava]

This book is worth reading, specifically you would like to learn problem solving.
I found Part 1 and Part 2 more useful than Part 3. Part 3 describes framework, which are not so new to learn and can be found through several other sources.
Part 1 and Part 2 provides learning about how to create your own, 2x 2 framework in order to solve a complex problem. It provides an approach to solve complex problems with simplicity.

[Greg Hopper]

This is not a book you read as much as one to which you refer. It is an interesting collection of matrices, as well as guidance on how to create them. Useful.

[Claire S]

I'm interested in this because it seems like it does have utility potentially.

One instance is mission v. margin analysis for non-profits: determining the net profitability of each project that a nonprofit is engaged in; and then also its fit with the organization's raison d'etre; and expanding/contracting potentially accordingly.

[Jack Vinson]

The book was okay - the first part was excellent but the examples didn't give me much additional insight. https://www.jackvinson.com/blog/2011/...