Two strategic initiatives out of three fail. They are actually a huge challenge for “more-of-the-same, better-and-better”, companies. Indeed, their cross-organization scope violates all principles of silo efficiency.
Strategic initiatives are precisely not “more of the same.” Smarter Execution identifies seven key steps that managers need to get to grips with if they are to reap the full benefits of their strategic initiatives:
¨ Focus first—less is more
¨ Pick the best possible team—don’t compromise
¨ Set the course—learn to navigate to a destination that is not yet fully defined
¨ Set up to win—there is no “commitment switch”: it starts with you
¨ Think it through—rehearse mentally each next step, leaving no stone unturned
¨ Get all aboard—it’s about getting people to change the way they work
¨ Follow through—to learn on the go
The authors, Xavier Gilbert, Bettina Büchel, and Rhoda Davidson, have been working with several hundred executives to help them execute their strategic initiatives. Time and again, they have seen how these seemingly common-sense insights were actually unexpectedly difficult to apply in most “efficient” organizations
Xavier Gilbert is Professor of Strategy and holds the LEGO Chair in International Business Dynamics and is IT Director at IMD. He is particularly involved in project-based learning initiatives, helping management teams plan and exercise critical projects, as well as enhancing their capabilities.
Bettina Büchel is Professor of Strategy and Organization at IMD. Her current research topics include strategy implementation, new business development, strategic alliances and change management.
Rhoda Davidson is a Program Manager at IMD. She works with faculty to design and implement tailored executive learning programs. Her special area of expertise is working with teams on key strategic initiatives and major change projects. She works closely with clients to define their business issues and helps to facilitate and maximize organizational learning, leadership development and, of course, the impact on business results.