Table of Contents

Introduction vii

The Fable 1

Preview 3

Part One: Flashback 5

Part Two: Plot Point 19

Part Three: Protagonist 53

Part Four: Action 69

Part Five: Resolution 173

The Model 219

The Paradox of Meetings 221

Executive Summary 223

Problem #1: Lack of Drama 226

Problem #2: Lack of Contextual Structure 233

The Biggest Challenge of All: “The Myth of Too Many Meetings” 250

A Final Thought on Meetings 253

The Weekly Tactical Meeting Guide 254

Acknowledgments 255

About the Author 259   

About the Author

PATRICK LENCIONI is founder and president of The Table Group, a management consulting firm specializing in executive team development and organizational health. As a consultant and keynote speaker, he has worked with thousands of senior executives in organizations ranging from Fortune 500s and high-tech start-ups to universities and nonprofits. He is the author of numerous nationally recognized books, including the New York Times best-seller The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.

To learn more about Patrick Lencioni and his other products and services—including his newsletter and free resources—please visit www.tablegroup.com.

Reviews

“…a work of fiction with important messages for management” (Leadership & Organisational Development Journal) “The author is something of a master of the modern fable….” (Professional Manager, Vol.13, No.6, November 2004) “…pitches his theory neatly at busy readers by opening with an executive summary.” (Supply Management, 8 July 2004) "Highly recommended: you could even take it to your next meeting." (On Target, September 2007)

"...a work of fiction with important messages for management" (Leadership & Organisational Development Journal)

"The author is something of a master of the modern fable...." (Professional Manager, Vol.13, No.6, November 2004)

"...pitches his theory neatly at busy readers by opening with an executive summary." (Supply Management, 8 July 2004)

"Highly recommended: you could even take it to your next meeting." (On Target, September 2007)