Stronger in the Broken Places

About the Author

James Lee Witt is a notable figure in the field of crisis management, best known for his role as the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from 1993 to 2001. During his tenure, Witt transformed FEMA from a beleaguered bureaucracy into a responsive and respected organization. His leadership was crucial during numerous natural and man-made disasters, including earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and the Oklahoma City bombing. Witt's approach to disaster management emphasized preparedness, mitigation, and customer service, earning him widespread acclaim and respect.

James Morgan, a skilled writer and co-author, has a rich background in crafting compelling narratives and bringing complex subjects to life. His collaboration with Witt in "Stronger in the Broken Places" offers a unique blend of practical wisdom and engaging storytelling, making complex crisis management strategies accessible to a broad audience. Morgan's writing helps to convey the urgency and importance of Witt's lessons, emphasizing the real-world applicability of the strategies discussed.

Main Idea

"Stronger in the Broken Places" is a guidebook for navigating crises and turning them into opportunities for growth and improvement. The main premise is that crises are inevitable but can be managed effectively with the right preparation and mindset. The book presents nine key lessons that guide individuals and organizations through the process of crisis management, from preparation to recovery. Witt and Morgan argue that crises reveal the true character of individuals and organizations, and how they respond can define their future success.

The book emphasizes the importance of understanding an organization's core values, building strong communication systems, and fostering a culture of teamwork and resilience. It also highlights the role of leadership in guiding an organization through a crisis and the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Through real-world examples and practical advice, "Stronger in the Broken Places" provides a roadmap for turning adversity into triumph.

Table of Contents

• Analyzing and Explaining Each Idea and Sub-Content

Analyzing and Explaining Each Idea and Sub-Content

1. Find Your Roots

Understanding and aligning with core values is the bedrock of effective crisis management. Witt asserts,

"Knowing your values—both literally and figuratively—is the crucial first step in preparing for a crisis."

This idea underscores the importance of having a clear set of guiding principles that inform decision-making during a crisis. The example of Johnson & Johnson during the Tylenol crisis is illustrative. When faced with a situation where cyanide was found in bottles of Tylenol, the company's adherence to its credo of prioritizing customer safety led to decisive action. They pulled the product off the shelves, demonstrating a commitment to their core values over short-term financial considerations.

This lesson is reinforced by the importance of regularly testing and reaffirming these values, as demonstrated by Johnson & Johnson's "challenge sessions." These sessions ensure that the company's actions align with its stated values and provide a platform for managers to engage deeply with the credo. For FEMA, under Witt's leadership, this process involved the creation of the agency's first mission statement, focusing on mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. This mission statement not only provided clarity and direction but also helped to build a culture of accountability and purpose within the agency.