For Subscribers

Business Models Illustrated The new <em>Business Model Generation</em> book uses creative visuals to break down business models into nine building blocks.

By Jennifer Wang

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Don't let the title fool you. Business Model Generation is worthy of a place on your coffee table. The 288-page "handbook for visionaries, game changers and challengers" is filled with photography, artwork and trendy design.

Authors Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur use the creative visuals to explain how to break down business models into nine building blocks--elements such as partnerships, revenue streams and key resources--and how to re-imagine them to reflect the changing times.

"The lines between industries are blurring, and a lot of new models are emerging," says Osterwalder, an expert on business model design and innovation. "It's time for a better unit of analysis and a joint language to describe a process that every company goes through."

Business Model Generation doesn't just preach innovation, it puts it into practice: Osterwalder and Pigneur elicited insight for the book from more than 470 "co-creators" from 45 countries. Each paid a small sum--$24 to $243--to participate in the idea exchange, which partially financed the initial print run of 5,000 copies. The books sold out in eight weeks, and the project now funds itself.

The lesson? Says Osterwalder, "We demonstrated that even for an independently published book, you can think of an innovative business model to make it work."

No arguments here. Based on the waiting list, a current, second print run of 10,000 is expected to sell out, and plans for a third are gearing up. Grab yours (if you can) on Amazon or at businessmodelgeneration.com; $46.99 hardcover, and $34.99 paperback.

Jennifer Wang

Writer and Content Strategist

Jennifer Wang is a Los Angeles-based journalist and content strategist who works at a startup and writes about people in startups. Find her at lostconvos.com.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Leadership

Is AI Worth the Layoffs? Inside a CEO's Ethical Nightmare

AI-driven workforce cuts are spreading across major corporations such as Amazon, Microsoft, IBM and Walmart. But for smaller business CEOs, it's not just strategy — it's deeply personal. How do you tell employees you consider friends that AI might replace them?

Business News

Here Are the 10 Highest-Paying Jobs with the Lowest Risk of Being Replaced By AI: 'Safest Jobs Right Now'

A new report from career resources platform Resume Genius finds the top 10 AI-proof careers expected to see the most growth within the next decade.

Business Solutions

Windows 11 Pro Is a Must-Have Upgrade for Busy Entrepreneurs

Unlock features that are made for the modern professional with this Windows 11 Pro license for just $15.

Growing a Business

Why Your Old Marketing Tactics Are Killing Your Growth in 2025

Using marketing tactics from a couple of years ago doesn't just put you behind — it makes you disappear.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Science & Technology

How I Went From Side Hustle to 7 Figures Using These 4 AI Tools (No Tech Skills Needed)

Scale faster, work less and grow a 7-figure business — no team needed.