# Why Companies Fail and How Great Ones Stay Great

Eric Ries' new book could reshape the business world.

- **Source:** [Steve Blank (steveblank.com)](https://steveblank.com)
- **Published:** 2026-06-09
- **Topic:** [Leadership](https://brifing.si/c/leadership)
- **Original article:** <https://steveblank.com/2026/06/09/incorruptible/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d947767f-40ee-49d5-a73f-f6450826d70e

## The Core Message

Eric Ries' 'Incorruptible' examines why companies fail and how great ones stay successful. The book proposes a radical transformation in the corporate world and aims to rebuild the business landscape after future financial crises.

## Historical Perspective

The book provides a historical perspective on how companies evolved from serving the public to serving shareholders. This shift forms the basis of modern corporate governance issues.

## Governance Structure

Ries offers practical suggestions for companies to build resilient governance structures. These structures are crucial for long-term success.

## Network Effect

The book also explores the network effect created by such companies. This effect could trigger broader changes in the corporate world.

## LTSE and Short-Termism

Eric Ries launched the Long Term Stock Exchange (LTSE) project in 2019. LTSE aimed to solve the short-termism problem in public markets. The book delves into the ideas behind this project.

## The Book's Importance

'Incorruptible' could be even more significant than Lean Startup. The book serves as a critical guide for the future of companies and society.

## Sources covering this story

- https://steveblank.com/2026/06/09/incorruptible/ — 

---

_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._