In the book "The Soul of a New Machine," author Tracy Kidder explores the complexities of technological innovation within a corporate environment. He reveals that the very success of a company can sometimes lead to its downfall, as unexpected challenges arise from rapid growth and increased expectations. This paradox indicates that thriving in a competitive industry can create pressures that suffocate an organization, preventing it from adapting to new circumstances.

Kidder emphasizes that pursuing success is not a straightforward path; instead, it can create an environment where complacency or overconfidence hinders a company's ability to innovate. He illustrates how the struggles faced by teams in high-tech environments reflect broader themes of ambition and the risks associated with failure to evolve. Consequently, even firms that seem successful on the surface may be jeopardizing their long-term sustainability.