Edward Schmidt

I worked as a midlevel manager for sixteen years in the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). I managed the successful development of its first electronic consultant-selection system (which is still in operation). Since consultants perform about half the department’s designs of highways and bridges, this was an important and high-profile project.

After presenting the new system at a conference attended by over three hundred consultants, I accepted a position managing the two groups tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the department’s consultant-hiring practices.

I was respected by the many managers and staff who dealt with me. I enjoyed helping people—and the organization overall—become more successful. I wrote this book to help managers who are looking for a better approach to management. I hope this book will helps them achieve a richer and more productive career in management.