Google Management Teachings: The Marissa Method
April 6, 2016
I read “This is What’s Wrong with Alphabet: Experts.” I like it when old media outfits pump out parental advice to the company which is more valuable than CNBC. I noted this statement about Google’s management:
As market watchers mull over whether Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has a leadership problem, Bill George, former CEO of Medtronic, said the company’s issue is direction. “The question is … can Larry Page guide and direct them and keep them under control?” he told “Closing Bell.” “He’s got a group of mavericks and they’re not all going to work out.”
Apparently CNBC and its experts perceive a management problem at the Alphabet Google thing. No kidding? “Google’s Moonshots Are Crashing Back Down to Earth” points out the Loon balloon-type innovations may not lift the firm’s revenues in a significant way. We have founders selling shares, a single source of revenue, and legal challenges up to one’s digital eye balls. The write up knowingly stated:
George’s comments come amid reports of leadership dissatisfaction at Alphabet, a crisis that has placed the company under investor scrutiny. Market watchers remain concern about whether Alphabet’s compartmentalization helps the stock in the long run.
Great stuff. The only point I wished had been included was this one:
Bring back Marissa Mayer.
Perhaps reality will work out once the Yahoo saga fades into business school case studies? Maybe Google search needs a Xoogler’s return and gentle touch?
Stephen E Arnold, April 6, 2016