Shared Services: Adding Value to the Business Units : Book Review

"Shared Services: Mining for Corporate Gold" by Donniel S. Schulman offers a practical and insightful guide for organizations seeking to implement shared services as a means to enhance their operational efficiency and reduce costs. Drawing on his extensive experience in the field, the author provides a comprehensive overview of the shared services model and offers valuable advice on successfully implementing and managing such initiatives.

Schulman begins by introducing the concept of shared services and highlighting why it has gained popularity and proven to be effective across various industries. He emphasizes the potential benefits that organizations can expect, such as cost savings through economies of scale, enhanced service quality, and standardization. Additionally, the author addresses common challenges and risks that organizations may face when implementing shared services, including resistance to change and issues with aligning the organization.

One of the key strengths of "Shared Services" is the author's ability to break down complex concepts into practical steps, making it accessible to readers regardless of their familiarity with the subject. Schulman provides a step-by-step framework for designing and implementing a shared services organization, covering aspects such as defining goals, establishing governance structures, and measuring success.

What distinguishes this book is its emphasis on the human elements of shared services. The author acknowledges that successful implementation transcends process changes and necessitates addressing cultural and organizational dynamics. Schulman offers guidance on change management, effective communication, and stakeholder engagement to navigate these challenges and ensure the success of shared services initiatives.

In summary, "Shared Services: Mining for Corporate Gold" is an invaluable resource for organizations considering or already embarking on a shared services journey. With its practical insights, clear framework, and attention to human aspects, this book serves as an essential guide for maximizing the potential benefits and avoiding pitfalls along the way.

What are readers saying?

Donniel S. Schulman's book titled "Shared Services" has received a range of reviews from readers, expressing differing opinions on its content. The book delves into the concept of shared services and offers valuable insights into implementing this model within organizations, discussing both its benefits and challenges.

Some reviewers appreciated the comprehensive overview of shared services provided in the book. They found the content well-structured and informative, appreciating the practical advice and strategies offered for successful implementation. Readers praised the author's expertise in the field and commended the relevance of the book for professionals involved in managing shared services initiatives.

However, other readers found the book overly technical and lacking in practical examples. They felt that the author focused too much on theory without adequately addressing specific challenges organizations may face in implementing shared services. Some reviewers also noted a lack of depth in certain areas, expressing a desire for more in-depth analysis of case studies or real-world examples.

The writing style of the book was another point of contention among readers. While some found it accessible and easy to understand, others found the content dense and filled with industry jargon, making it challenging for readers without prior knowledge of shared services to follow along.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers acknowledged the book's valuable insights into the potential benefits of shared services, such as cost savings and increased efficiency. They viewed it as a useful resource for professionals seeking to understand the fundamentals of shared services or considering its implementation in their organizations.

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