This is an excellent book. Throwing aside the traditional theory that paints the process of creating a successful business as a linear process, Shuman starts the book with the statement: "The conventional wisdom is wrong!"

He then goes on to describe the dance and the rhythm of business. Yes, Shuman tells us that there is a Rhythm to business. A quantifiable rhythm. And for the majority of us who are not born with it, the good news is that it can be learned.

If the rhythm of dance is driven by music, then the rhythm of business is driven by the customer. The successful business owner, Shuman explains, has been able to dynamically (and profitably) evolve to meet the needs of the customer. To do this successfully, the business must understand its customer, and learn about its customers as it progresses through 'customer interaction cycles'.

Throughout this book Shuman builds the case for using customer interaction cycles, which lie at the heart of the rhythm of business. These are the cycles that enable the business to test, assess, and effectively target its products/services to its customers. In illustrating the benefits of using this product, Shuman not only points to examples of success, but he also uses examples of failures and near failures to illustrate his theory.

If you are starting a business, or are looking for ways to improve an existing business, get out some pinstriped dancing shoes and grab a copy of The Rhythm of Business. This book would be most useful for new entrepreneurs, or business owners looking for ideas that can help them recognize and overcome obstacles that they are currently facing in their companies.