Many a management manual is built around case studies and data analysis. But the epiphany that grew into this book came to Peter Senge one morning while meditating. Senge, who founded the Center for Organizational Learning at MIT's Sloan School of Management, developed five essential disciplines of a true "learning organization," which is one that continually improves (and stays competitive) by helping its members learn. The first four disciplines focus on developing individual focus, building a shared vision, and communicating as a team. But the heart of the book is the Fifth Discipline, called "systems thinking," which involves analyzing the organization's complex system of relationships and removing obstacles to true learning.