Thinking Strategically, Craig Loehle, Cambridge University Press, 1996. Strengths: Systematic presentation of strategic thinking as problem solving. Premised on linear and logic thinking. Provides skills-based models to strengthen complex linear thinking. Weaknesses: Frames strategic thinking as problem solving. Limits discussion to development of logic and to refining linear thinking skills. Limits recommendations to skills-based exercises only. This book's advantage: Embraces a more comprehensive approach to learning that includes the non-rational, non-linear aspects of learning to think strategically. Considers the affective, rather than just cognitive dimension to learning. The assumption is that learning is not just a linear process and that thinking strategically is broader and significantly more complex than logical and linear thinking. The book includes activities and exercises that strengthen three levels of learning including: instrumental, communicative and transformative. Reinventing Strategy, Using Strategic Learning to Create and Sustain Breakthrough Performance, Willie Pietersen, Wiley 2002. Strengths: Incorporates learning into a four-step model of making strategy. Straightforward presentation of content. Brings learning vocabulary into the strategic literature lexicon. Weaknesses: Learning is but one segmented part of the strategic process outlined. Learning is sequenced as a step in the overall process, reinforcing a linear progression. This book's advantage: Zooms in on the single dimension of learning as it relates to thinking strategically. The iterative nature of learning is highlighted, rather than positioning learning as a single, sequenced segment. The focus of the entire book is on learning to think strategically, rather than on the overall strategic process. Details a more intense examination of the role of learning as it relates to thinking strategically. The Innovator's Solution, Clay Christensen, Michael
