Positives The reviews consistently praise the book for its data-driven approach, drawing on an extensive database of over 16,000 projects to provide empirical support for its arguments. Readers found it easy to understand and highly accessible, appreciating how complex concepts were broken down into sensible chapters and built upon lesson by lesson. Many highlighted its refreshing methodology of presenting stories backed by data, rather than fitting data to narratives, which proved immediately beneficial for practical application in professional settings. The book is lauded for offering practical, actionable insights and challenging conventional wisdom, particularly its central tenet of "think slow, act fast." Reviewers found the project examples fascinating and inspiring, and the overall content was considered highly relevant for understanding the factors critical to project success, such as delivering on time and within budget.
Negatives Despite its strengths, some reviewers felt the book occasionally lacked groundbreaking insights, with certain recommendations appearing to be common sense or "open doors" for experienced professionals. A few critics suggested that the author might have oversimplified some arguments or selectively used examples to broaden appeal, rather than maintaining a purely analytical stance. Questions were raised about specific details, such as the application of modularity or certain probability discussions, and the final chapter on climate change was sometimes perceived as a personal opinion piece rather than a data-backed analysis, feeling somewhat out of place. Some found the book's structure predictable and repetitive, akin to typical pop science or self-help formats, leading to a feeling of superficiality or a lack of originality for those well-versed in management literature. Concerns were also voiced about the actual length of the core content, with some feeling it was shorter than expected.
Conclusion Overall, the book is considered a valuable and impactful read, offering a powerful framework for understanding why large-scale projects succeed or fail. Many reviewers deem it essential reading, praising it as a well-written, insightful, and highly applicable non-fiction work. It is particularly recommended for project managers, engineers, and professionals involved in construction or any large-scale endeavor. Beyond that, the book is also seen as beneficial for local government officials, politicians, and indeed anyone interested in improving decision-making processes for complex challenges, whether in a professional or personal context. Readers new to project management literature will likely find it eye-opening, while even experienced practitioners can gain fresh perspectives and practical wisdom, especially regarding the nuanced approach of thorough planning followed by swift execution.
