Softwar
Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle
Author
Matthew Symonds
Published Date
2003
Page Count
528
Overview
“Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle” by Matthew Symonds is a detailed biography of Larry Ellison, the co-founder and longtime CEO of Oracle Corporation. The book provides an in-depth look at Ellison’s life, his role in building Oracle into a software giant, and his unique management style. Symonds, with unparalleled access to Ellison and his colleagues, paints a comprehensive picture of one of the tech industry’s most charismatic and controversial figures.
Key Themes
- Biography of Larry Ellison: Ellison’s personal and professional journey, including his early life, the founding of Oracle, and his leadership style.
- Rise of Oracle: The growth and evolution of Oracle Corporation within the competitive world of enterprise software.
- Corporate Strategy and Innovation: Oracle’s business strategies, technological innovations, and its role in shaping the software industry.
- Ellison’s Personality and Leadership: Exploration of Ellison’s character, including his ambitions, controversies, and influence.
Historical Context
The narrative spans several decades, covering the rise of the software industry and Oracle’s transformation into a major player in the tech world.
Author’s Background
Matthew Symonds, a journalist and former technology editor at The Economist, combines thorough research with journalistic insights to provide an intimate portrait of Ellison and Oracle.
Impact and Legacy
The book is appreciated for its in-depth and balanced portrayal of Larry Ellison, offering insights into both his personal life and his significant impact on the technology industry.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths: “Softwar” offers a detailed and engaging account of one of the tech industry’s most influential figures and the company he built. Weaknesses: Some readers might seek more recent developments in Ellison’s career and Oracle’s evolution beyond the book’s publication date.
Who Should Read This?
Ideal for readers interested in the history of the technology industry, corporate leadership, and the life stories of influential business figures.
Similar Books
- “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson: The biography of Steve Jobs, offering insights into the life of the Apple co-founder and his impact on technology.
- “The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution” by Walter Isaacson: A broader history of digital innovation, spanning from the 19th century to the present.
Final Thoughts
“Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle” provides a fascinating look into the life of one of the tech industry’s most dynamic personalities and the company he built into a global powerhouse.