Realizing your strategy’s potential : a seven-step model for its effective execution

Purpose: A seven-step Strategy Execution Model provides a tested guide to agile implementation. Design/methodology/approach: Pragmatic actions, key deliverables and a case example for each of the seven steps in the model are presented. Findings: Firms that focus more on strategic planning than implementation are often plagued with execution issues. Whereas, organizations that are able to execute their strategies as a well managed, integrated process have a much better chance of realizing the full potential of their plans. Practical implications: Supporting the experience of numerous management teams, research indicates that poor execution often squanders the value companies anticipate from innovative, advantageous strategic initiatives. To minimize the likelihood of mismanagement, companies need a repeatable process that provides an integrated and actionable approach to effective strategy execution. Originality/value: Senior executives and middle managers need a structured, coordinated system for managing strategy implementation. The author’s seven-step method has been tested in practice and refined. It emphasizes communication and agile adaptability.