Respect and reputation key to success in India – and India's success : Lessons to be learned in HR, strategy and operations from the world's largest democracy

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – It is common in times of major change for people to turn to history, both to understand current events and in some way interpret the future for themselves and society. Historians and artists tell us there is much to be learned by the lessons of history, and therefore as the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) shows no sign of abating in 2012, there is much to tempt us into opening up the history books to see what might befall us. Practical implications – The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.