Gerry Johnson, one of the original co-authors, recalls the origins of the book in the early 1980s when he and Kevan Scholes taught the MBA program at Aston University. They noticed a gap in resources: very few strategy textbooks were available and those that existed focused narrowly on the techniques of corporate planning, lacking the depth and integration of theory and practice they sought. Kevan elaborates further on the detailed process of crafting a new strategy framework that challenged conventional approaches and emphasized interconnectedness. Thus, the journey to create the 1^st edition of Exploring Strategy began. Kevan outlines that over time, as the book grew, international translations and the concise version, Fundamentals of Strategy, were developed to meet evolving teaching needs and enrich the learning experience for students around the world.

The author team also expanded, welcoming new voices and perspectives from Richard Whittington, Duncan Angwin, Patrick Regnér – and now also Julia Hautz, the first female author to join the team. Julia sheds light on her inspiration and the significance of diverse representation in strategic discourse. She also highlights the importance of digital courseware like Revel and eTextbooks adding value to the learning experience in today’s digital world.

Now in its thirteenth edition, Duncan Angwin explores how the title bridges academic learning with real-world applicability, equipping students with essential employability skills to be better prepared for the future. Patrick Regnér delves into how the book addresses contemporary challenges, ensuring relevance in evolving organizational landscapes through the three core themes of sustainability, digitalization and nonprofit. Finally, Richard Whittington highlights what sets Exploring Strategy apart, offering invaluable advice to aspiring strategists.

As we celebrate 40 years of Exploring Strategy, we want to remind the readers of the continuing impact on generations of students and professionals. From its inception to the present day, the book continues to guide and inspire, shaping the future of strategic management education. To the next chapter of exploration, innovation, and growth! Join us in celebrating this anniversary, and let's embark on the next 40 years of strategic discovery together. Check out the complete video: