This is a fairly common practice across many relatively successful organizations. In addition to the other companies mentioned in this thread,I believe McKinse

This is a fairly common practice across many relatively successful organizations. In addition to the other companies mentioned in this thread,I believe McKinsey consulting also takes a similar approach. Granted, successful does not necessarily imply they are innovative. This management strategy may be more effective in more sedate and established industries where adhering to best practices may be more important than charting new courses. If anything, this would seem to be a cautionary tale to tech startups that may be tempted to hastily implement traditional MBA'esque management styles. One size certainly does not fit all.