Final answer:
The supplied texts do not specify which management tool or technique is the most popular as per the Bain & Company survey. They discuss strengths-based management and how established firms function with regards to managerial relationships and investors but do not directly answer the student's question.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to a recent survey conducted by Bain & Company, which management tool or technique is the most popular among managers and executives in North American firms? The provided information does not directly mention a specific tool or technique identified by Bain & Company as the most popular. Instead, it discusses the relevance of understanding the strengths and management style of the managers once a firm is established. It offers insight into the trend that as companies grow and their information becomes more accessible, the need for investors to have a personal understanding of managers diminishes. Additionally, it touches upon strengths-based management, which Donald Clifton introduced, suggesting that focusing on an individual's strengths can be beneficial, although its impact on performance has not been extensively studied.
Strengths-based management is highlighted as a popular concept, although the survey results pertaining to its prevalence in North American firms may not be directly cited. The information highlights a shift in manager-investor relationships and the importance of understanding a manager's work style, weaknesses, and transparency. It also connects with the overarching theme of management strategies such as Theory X and Theory Y, although these are more directly linked to motivational theories than to the most popular management tools.