Doing good, but doing it well? How leading companies are approaching corporate social responsibility

Abstract

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

The paper finds that the argument used to be should companies seek to do good or just concentrate on delivering value for their shareholders? Now the question is hardly even interesting. The reality is that companies are investing significantly in corporate social responsibility (CSR). They may hate the name – Marks & Spencer – calling their CSR monitors the “How we do business committee” – but they are doing it. Business schools are teaching it, and demand for courses is rising. According to a special report in The Economist, one of the not‐so‐quiet revolutions taking place within society is that companies are absorbing pressures once the preserve of governments and charities.

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.

Citation

(2008), "Doing good, but doing it well? How leading companies are approaching corporate social responsibility", Strategic Direction, Vol. 24 No. 8, pp. 21-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540810884629