#596
Mentioned in 11 episodes
Pieces of the action
Book • 2022
In 'Pieces of the Action', Vannevar Bush offers a collection of memoir-essays that reflect on his 60-year career in public affairs.
He discusses his role as the architect and administrator of an R&D pipeline that coordinated the work of civilian scientists and the military during World War II, leading to significant innovations such as radar, the proximity fuze, and the mass production of penicillin.
The book provides hard-won lessons on operating and managing complex organizations, building bridges between disciplines, and driving ambitious programs to fruition.
It also includes personal anecdotes and observations, offering a glimpse into Bush's personality and leadership style.
Originally published in 1970, this updated edition includes archival images and a foreword by Ben Reinhardt that contextualizes the lessons for contemporary readers.
He discusses his role as the architect and administrator of an R&D pipeline that coordinated the work of civilian scientists and the military during World War II, leading to significant innovations such as radar, the proximity fuze, and the mass production of penicillin.
The book provides hard-won lessons on operating and managing complex organizations, building bridges between disciplines, and driving ambitious programs to fruition.
It also includes personal anecdotes and observations, offering a glimpse into Bush's personality and leadership style.
Originally published in 1970, this updated edition includes archival images and a foreword by Ben Reinhardt that contextualizes the lessons for contemporary readers.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 11 episodes
Mentioned by 
David Senra for his unique job interview process, focusing on problem-solving abilities.
David Senra for his unique job interview process, focusing on problem-solving abilities.
966 snips
#330 Les Schwab (Charlie Munger recommended this book)
Mentioned by David Senra , describing Bush's unique job interview process involving solving a technical puzzle.
David Senra , describing Bush's unique job interview process involving solving a technical puzzle.719 snips
#345 George Lucas
Mentioned by David Senra as a book offering lessons on operating within complex organizations and driving ambitious programs.
David Senra as a book offering lessons on operating within complex organizations and driving ambitious programs.191 snips
#270: Vannevar Bush (Pieces of the Action)
Mentioned by David Senra in relation to Jim Clark's similar philosophies on engineering and capitalism.
David Senra in relation to Jim Clark's similar philosophies on engineering and capitalism.169 snips
#274 Jim Clark (Silicon Graphics, Netscape)
Mentioned by David Senra as a book he recently read, highlighting its themes on the harsh realities of life.
David Senra as a book he recently read, highlighting its themes on the harsh realities of life.
David Senra on Deadwood (also: founders, entrepreneurs, civilization, Henry Singleton, Walt Disney, David Ogilvy, etc)
