Unlocking Your Company’s Legacy: Why Writing a Corporate History Book Matters

A few years ago, I had the privilege of working with a client to write their company history book. The company was on the verge of its centennial, so there was immense research to be done – people to interview, newsletters to catalogue, articles to read, photos to scan. As the story unfolded, the project became more and more valuable.

If you are considering having someone write your company history, here are some compelling reasons why it’s worth it:

1.    Definitive History: A well-researched commemorative history or book serves as the official record of your company’s journey. It becomes a handy reference guide for employees, investors, customers, and other stakeholders. 

2.    Preserving Culture: A company history book preserves the unique culture, philosophy, mission, and spirit of the corporation. When employees look back on the roots of their company, and how far the company has come since then, it fosters a sense of pride to belong to such a success story. The same can be said for customers. As organizations grow, new customers and prospects may not fully grasp the scope, quality, and innovation of products and services available.

3.    Internal Resource: Beyond external audiences, a corporate history book can be a valuable resource for internal use. It informs decision-making, strategy development, and helps build a strong company culture. 

In summary, writing a company history book isn’t just about documenting the past; it’s about shaping the future by honoring the journey and sharing it with the world.