The Bombardier Story: From Snowmobiles to Global Transportation Powerhouse

By Larry MacDonald

The story of the company that was founded by the inventor of the snowmobile In 1942, Joseph-Armand Bombardier invented the snowmobile and founded his company to manufacture them. From its humble beginnings as an entrepreneurial company in rural Quebec, led by an enterprising inventor, Bombardier Inc. has emerged as a global leader in the transportation industry. This book tells the fascinating tale of this remarkably well managed company that has enjoyed spectacular growth in its chosen markets through strong leadership and management strategy, succession planning, strategic diversification, and turnaround and acquisition artistry. The fascinating story of the world's largest rail manufacturer for both railway and subway Reveals why Bombardier Inc. is a multi-faceted global company yet nobody knows their name Written by Larry MacDonald the author of Nortel Network The Bombardier Story shows how invention and entrepreneurship, management and leadership, smooth succession planning, and turnaround and acquisition built this global powerhouse.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1118482948
• ISBN13: 9781118482940
• Release Date: December 2012
• Publisher: Wiley
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.3" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

Good, but not great, business history

Strengths of The Bombardier Story:* Comprehensive, but non-controversial, chronology of company from J.A. Bombardier's Quebec garage to an international conglomerate* Complete review of the company's entry into snowmobiles, trains, and aerospace* Straight-forward analysis of strengths and weaknesses of the company looking forward to the market challenges of future yearsWeaknesses:* Even though the author writes early in the book that he will explain some of the company's innovative management methods, these parts come up short. The explanations of the Bombardier Management System and the employee-centric culture do not give the reader a lot of information that could easily transfer to their own businesses* While I know little of the company's history beyond this book, I do believe that some of the less flattering portions of the company's history are played down or left out. This would include the company's investment in, then quiet exit from, the 100+-seat commercial jet business.Recommended for those interested specifically in Bombardier's history or as a secondary reference for those interested in the business of recreational machines, trains, or civil aircraft.