How Big Things Get Done

How Big Things Get Done explores why large projects succeed or fail, drawing on research from infrastructure, business, and science - from home renovations to space exploration. The book reveals the surprising patterns behind effective planning and execution.

The authors challenge traditional ideas about ambition and forecasting, offering practical lessons on managing complexity, risk, and human bias. The focus is on realism, preparation, and disciplined decision-making.

An essential read for leaders, planners, and professionals involved in complex projects, this book provides insights that apply across industries.

Flyvbjerg and Gardner draw on project research and examples to examine why early planning choices can have lasting effects. Their discussion encourages readers to test assumptions, forecast realistically, account for risk and pay attention to how a project is organised before work accelerates. The ideas can be useful to managers, planners and anyone involved in delivering complex projects, from business initiatives to infrastructure work.

Product Details

Format: Hardcover
Language: English
Reading age: 18 years and above
Author: Bent Flyvbjerg & Dan Gardner
ISBN: 9781035018949
Publisher: Currency / Penguin Random House
Dimensions: 24 × 16 × 3 cm
Weight: 0.65 kg

Delivery Time: 3–5 business days