I just finished reading Barron’s [Oct. 29, 2007] with their article on Cornelius Vanderbilt. What impressed me most is the summation of his business prowess was built upon:

‘Vanderbilt’s formula for success was a simple one: Keep the ships in tip-top shape, hire the best captains and crews, and minimize all other costs.’

What a simple formula! Build the best, hire the best and keep all costs low. How many of today’s captains of industry follow this simple creed. In my view, Commodore Vanderbilt is an example of leadership that is far to often missing in today’s modern world.