But though the typical overseas Chinese conglomerate, ruled by a lone patriarch, might do well in businesses, such as property or shipping, where good contacts and rapid decision-making are crucial, these fief-firms have their limitations.

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Mali also revealed that decision-making remains far too slow for rapid diplomatic and military responses to crises.

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It was he who coined the procurement mantra FIST (Fast, Inexpensive, Simple and Tiny) to "describe a particular pattern of decision making in procurement that aims to support rapid, low cost innovation".

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