The author identifies 10 research-backed principles from the field of organization development to guide companies: 1) Encourage cooperation, 2) organize for change, 3) anticipate the future, 4) remain flexible, 5) create distinctive spaces, 6) diversify your workforce — and create an inclusive environment, 7) promote personal growth, 8) empower people, 9) reward high performers, and 10) foster a leadership culture.

Healthy organizations have specific characteristics apparent from bottom to top. These include effective goal-sharing, teamwork, high employee morale, training opportunities, strong leadership, performance management, an understanding of risk, flexibility, a defined structure and clear policies.

Bridgespan finds that truly effective organizations exhibit strengths in five key interrelated areas: leadership, decision-making and structure, people, work processes and systems, and culture.