Book description
A vital and timely investigation into the opaque and powerful consulting industry--and what to do about it There is an entrenched relationship between the consulting industry and the way business and government are managed today that must change. Mariana Mazzucato and Rosie Collington show that our economies' reliance on companies such as McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company, PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, and EY stunts innovation, obfuscates corporate and political accountability, and impedes our collective mission of halting climate breakdown. The "Big Con" describes the confidence trick the consulting industry performs in contracts with hollowed-out and risk-averse governments and shareholder value-maximizing firms. It grew from the 1980s and 1990s in the wake of reforms by the neoliberal right and Third Way progressives, and it thrives on the ills of modern capitalism, from financialization and privatization to the climate crisis. It is possible because of the unique power that big consultancies wield through extensive contracts and networks--as advisors, legitimators, and outsourcers--and the illusion that they are objective sources of expertise and capacity. In the end, the Big Con weakens our businesses, infantilizes our governments, and warps our economies. In The Big Con, Mazzucato and Collington throw back the curtain on the consulting industry. They dive deep into important case studies of consultants taking the reins with disastrous results, such as the debacle of the roll out of HealthCare.gov and the tragic failures of governments to respond adequately to the COVID-19 pandemic. The result is an important and exhilarating intellectual journey into the modern economy's beating heart. With peerless scholarship, and a wealth of original research, Mazzucato and Collington argue brilliantly for building a new system in which public and private sectors work innovatively for the common good.
Chlorine
This app is a boon for book lovers who are always on the go. The statistics feature in ListenBook provides valuable insights into my audiobook habits, helping me learn and grow.
Hobo Samurai
ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats ensures that I can enjoy a wide range of content hassle-free. Finally, an app that lets me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. The library organization and book groups feature make navigation a breeze. Kudos to ListenBook for the intuitive design and easy-to-use controls. It's evident that they've put a lot of thought into user experience. My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook!
Dropkick
My commutes to work have transformed into exciting journeys thanks to this app. With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. No more hassle with file conversion. This app handles all formats effortlessly.
Reno Monarch
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a playful addition that lets me tweak the audiobook experience.
Dez Bonbon
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed – it's my form of meditation. 🔥 Simplifying my reading routine – the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. 📚🔗 The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds.
Trash Pocky
🎉 Adding a touch of magic to mundane tasks – this app turns errands into epic quests! 🛒📖 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a true marvel. Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
EchoExplorer
The quality of the audio is top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. Listening to audiobooks has become my guilt-free indulgence, and I love it. Automatic metadata extraction keeps my library organized. It's a time-saver! Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level.
Liquid Science
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! ListenBook's user-friendly audio filters and controls have made my audiobook sessions more interactive and engaging. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections.
DARK HQ
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. I can't imagine my daily activities without this app – it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. I've never experienced such silky-smooth playback even with high-quality FLAC files. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves!
Neophyte Believer
This app's user-friendly design makes navigating through books a breeze. ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am.
Willow Dragon
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one app. This app has enriched my daily routine with the joy of stories and knowledge. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks is a hassle-free process, regardless of the source.
Lumberyard
ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion.
Darkside Isis
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful – I'm hooked! With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. 🏝️ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures – this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. ☀️📖 The user-friendly interface and precise controls make listening to audiobooks an absolute delight.
Renegade Slugger
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. No more straining my eyes – this app lets me 'read' with my ears! I'm amazed at this app's ability to transport me to different worlds through stories. 🎉 This app has turned my errands into exciting quests – I can conquer the grocery store while enjoying a book! 🛒📖
Twisty Dew
Audiobooks made easy – this app's functionality is truly a gift. ListenBook's sharing options make it a breeze to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts and share recommendations.
Shay
The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. 🎧 Audiobooks anywhere, anytime – this app's convenience is unbeatable! 🌟📚
Titanium Ladybug
The narrators' voices on this app are so soothing – it's my relaxation therapy. 🎉 This app has ignited my passion for reading – I can't get enough of its convenience! 📚🔥 🏃♂️📚 Combining exercise and exploration – this app keeps me motivated on my daily jogs! 🏃♂️📖 I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. 📚💫 ListenBook's commitment to a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls is evident in every aspect of the app.
Houston
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. This app is a time-saver – I can 'read' even when I'm on the move. This app has made reading a part of my lifestyle, no matter where I am. This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time.
Heartbreaker
I love how this app makes my daily commute a journey through literature. Streamlining my audiobook journey – this app's design is top-notch. Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness.
Fuzzy Logic Hottie
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a seamless addition to my daily routine.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience