Strategy, shmategy, right? It seems that some things can become so complicated when there are too many cooks in the kitchen in the upper management of an organization. The development of a corporate strategy usually entails a week-long, isolated retreat for a small inner circle of upper managers that doesn't usually produce tangible results.
What are some of the obstacles standing in the way of a successful development and implementation of corporate strategy? In other words, why is this so difficult?
As an ice road trucker, roadblocks are one of my areas of expertise.
Roadblock #1: The game of telephone. The management team needs to make sure that the strategy is communicated clearly throughout all levels of the organization. If the details of the strategy are only clearly understood by a small circle of upper managers, the chances of the strategy being adopted organization-wide are pretty slim. Bits and pieces of the plan also shouldn't be passed on from one employee to the next, leaving the rest up for interpretation. This only promotes gossip, rumors and the spreading of incorrect information. Employees of all levels should be invited to an organization or department-wide strategic information sharing session where the details and significance of the plan are clearly communicated. This will hopefully reduce the time spent playing the telephone game (which will leave more time for those meaningful water cooler conversations).
Roadblock #2: An entire team of pitchers. Just like a baseball team, the strategic planning team needs to include people from many different areas and many different skill sets. When forming a strategic planning task force, it is best to recruit a team of all-stars who will be able to contribute a well-rounded perspective. Everyone brings a different view of the situation to the table.
Roadblock #3: Everyone's being shy. In order for the organization to develop and successfully implement its strategy, everyone needs to be honest about the company's biggest obstacles and most notable strengths. If there is a big threat off in the horizon that is looming for the company, it needs to be out on the table and the strategy needs to confront that head-on. Additionally, if there is something that the company really excels at, everyone needs to be in agreement about what that is and really call attention to it.
Roadblock #4: Closed door conversations. Try leaving the door opened a crack during the closed door conversations that seem to take place during strategic planning discussions. This will help promote honesty in the discussions and will help reduce anxiety and the development of rumors amongst employees. Strategy development and implementation shouldn't be a completely top-down approach; give employees at all levels the opportunity to be involved in some way. Employees can be invited to offer their feedback in a confidential way through a survey or a one-on-one discussion with their manager.
Hopefully these simple tips will help clear some of the roadblocks in your corporate strategy development and implementation! When all else fails, keep it simple and keep your eyes on the road ahead of you!
