Professionals play a critical role in modern society. They constitute an increasing proportion of the workforce, and increasingly work in sizeablesometimes giganticprofessional firms rather than as solo practitioners. So it is urgent that we understand better how professional firms work. This Handbook is vital for anyone interested in this field of research, with first-rate scholars offering authoritative surveys of the entire range of issues. An essential resource.
Professor Paul S. Adler, Harold Quinton Chair of Business Policy and Professor of Management and Organization; Marshall School Business, University of Southern California
The Oxford Handbook of Professional Service Firms is without question the leading compilation of academic work on this critical segment of the economy. Edited by some of the most distinguished scholars in the field, the book should be considered required reading for any practitioner who seeks to steer his or her firm through the turbulent waters of the contemporary marketplace, and every academic who seeks to understand the implications of the decisions firm leaders make for the professions, professional firms, and the professionals who make their living in these environments.
Professor David B. Wilkins, Vice Dean, Global Initiatives on the Legal Profession; Lester Kissel Professor of Law; Center on the Legal Profession; Harvard Law School.
This excellent Handbook brings together an outstanding cast of scholars to address the range, nature and behaviours of these firms. The Handbook will surely be inspirational not only to those already captivated by this class of organizations, but to scholars coming to them for the first time.
Professor Royston Greenwood, Telus Professor of Strategic Management; Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta
The Oxford Handbook of Professional Service Firms is my single most valuable book. I refer to it constantly when writing, reviewing, and thinking about professional service firms. I applaud the editors and authors for their scholarship and care in producing such a comprehensive and user-friendly resource.
Professor David M. Brock, Editor-in-chief, Journal of Professions and Organization
This Handbook really helps you get under the skin of professional service firms. They are organisations like no other, worthy of serious study, but with lessons to teach us all.
Stefan Stern Former Management Columnist, Financial Times