It is said that all organizations have a strategy since it is reflected in their decisions and actions.

I do not share this view.

Strategy aims to achieve an ambition, a vision for the organization. Where to Play and How to Win decisions are essential, and they require specific choices to be unique and create value.

If this is not the case, there is no strategy per se.

Here are 10 more thoughts on strategy:

1. Many organizations confuse strategy and planning. These are only two of the different steps in the strategy process. Alignment, monitoring, and governance are just as important.
2. For many, SWOT is often the gateway to strategy. It is essential to go beyond this and view strategy as an approach, a comprehensive and holistic process.
3. Approaching the strategy process without involving the active forces of the organization unnecessarily complicates implementation and perpetuates the outdated "command-and-control" model. To gain efficiency, we lose effectiveness.
4. Too often, strategy is approached from a purely financial perspective. We forget the customer and their needs, pains, and desired benefits.
5. The organization is like a collection of historical decisions. This can complicate potential strategic options and choices.
6. Maintaining team alignment and focus on priorities requires continuous management. A balance must be found between operational and strategic discussions.
7. Progress towards strategic priorities must be frequently evaluated. Think of sharing those with all teams to ensure alignment and momentum.
8. Strategy guides operations and is fueled by innovation.
9. Put competitive advantage at the heart of the strategy discussion. This implies understanding the competitive arena, the customers, and recognizing what makes the organization unique.
10. Competitive advantage is not developed solely through the value proposition. It relies on the business model's architecture and a specific value chain.

Strategy is not a black box and does not involve any sorcery!

It involves various dimensions of reflection that enable the organization to make informed choices to achieve its ambitions and objectives. This reflection is essential, and the strategy management process is a competency to be mastered in the same way as operational competencies.

Strategy requires rigour, transparency, as well as a collective and continuous effort.

So:

• How is this process going in your organization?
• Who is responsible for conducting it?
• How often is the strategy evaluated?

Have a good week,

Eric L'Heureux

PS. When you are ready to move forward, here are two options to propel your leadership and your organization:

1. Join our IAE-Pro Community to develop your strategic means of action (in French for now).
2. Take advantage of our support to define a clear mobilizing strategy and establish priorities with your team.