How to apply 80/20 to your business? Koch recommends focusing on one or two points that matter most and "find your 80/20 route....Work out three 80/20 actions to get you started. Each one must take you a giant leap along your 80/20 route toward your 80/20 destination."

More specific paths to "80/20," of course, depend on the many variables within an organization. Who are my best thinkers? Whom should I turn to at crunch time? Can I leapfrog the organizational chart and maintain stability?

Finally, do I want to be a Jack Welch-type leader in order to earn Jack Welch-type results? Frankly, it can't be done without adapting at least some of his managerial style.