Execution of strategy

Executing a strategy involves assessing the current state of the organization, developing achievable goals and objectives, implementing actions to reach those goals, and continuously monitoring and adjusting the strategy to ensure it remains on track. It requires clear communication of the strategy to all personnel, as well as establishing the necessary systems and structures to ensure that the strategy is executed successfully. It is an ongoing process that involves balancing resources and assessing risk to ensure that the goals set out in the strategy are achieved.

Example of execution of strategy

• A company has decided to focus on expanding its presence in the international market. To execute this strategy, the company has established a global team, created a network of international partners, developed a comprehensive marketing plan, and is actively engaging in international trade shows and conferences. Additionally, the company is researching new markets, exploring opportunities for partnerships and joint ventures, and investing in new technology and infrastructure to support its international operations.
• A business has decided to focus on developing innovative products. To execute this strategy, the company has invested in research and development, hired top talent, launched several pilot projects, and created a culture of experimentation and innovation. Additionally, the company has developed a system to track the progress of its projects and ensure that they are being executed in a timely manner. Furthermore, the company has established a feedback loop to ensure that customer feedback is taken into account when developing new products.

When to use execution of strategy

Execution of strategy can be used in many different scenarios, such as:

• Developing a new business strategy: This involves assessing the current state of the organization, identifying opportunities and threats, creating a vision and mission, setting objectives, and then implementing the plan to reach those objectives.
• Implementing changes in an existing strategy: This involves assessing the current strategy, identifying areas for improvement, developing new initiatives and processes to implement those changes, and then monitoring and adjusting the strategy to ensure it remains on track.
• Overcoming obstacles: This involves identifying any potential obstacles that may impede progress, developing solutions to address those obstacles, and then implementing those solutions to ensure the strategy remains on track.
• Re-aligning strategies: This involves assessing the current strategy, identifying areas that need re-alignment, and then implementing new strategies and processes to ensure the strategy remains aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
• Adapting to a changing environment: This involves assessing the current environment, identifying changes that need to be made to the strategy, and then implementing changes to ensure the strategy remains in line with the changing environment.

Types of execution of strategy

Executing a strategy involves a number of different steps and activities. These can be categorized into three main types: implementation, monitoring, and adjustment.

• Implementation: This involves the development of an implementation plan that outlines the specific activities and resources needed to achieve the goals set out in the strategy. It includes activities such as organizing teams, allocating resources, and developing systems and processes to support the strategy.
• Monitoring: This involves the continuous assessment of progress towards achieving the goals of the strategy. It involves tracking progress and evaluating whether the strategy is on track and making any necessary adjustments.
• Adjustment: This involves making changes to the strategy based on the results of the monitoring process. This may include changes to the goals, objectives, and activities to ensure that the strategy is meeting its intended objectives. It also involves assessing risks and taking corrective action as necessary.

Steps of execution of strategy

Executing a strategy involves several steps:

• The first step is to assess the current state of the organization and develop achievable goals and objectives. This involves gathering information on the organization's current situation, such as its financial position, market position, and competitive environment. It also involves understanding the needs of stakeholders and the resources available to the organization.
• The second step is to implement actions to reach the goals set out in the strategy. This involves developing plans, assigning responsibilities, and allocating resources to ensure that the strategy is implemented effectively.
• The third step is to continuously monitor and adjust the strategy to ensure it remains on track. This involves assessing progress and making necessary changes to ensure the strategy is still in line with the organization's goals.
• The fourth step is to communicate the strategy to all personnel. This involves providing information to staff and other stakeholders about the strategy and ensuring that everyone understands their role in the execution of the strategy.
• The fifth step is to establish the necessary systems and structures to ensure that the strategy is executed successfully. This includes creating processes, structures, and teams that are needed to effectively execute the strategy.

Limitations of execution of strategy

The execution of strategies can be limited by a variety of factors, including:

• Limited resources: Strategic execution is limited by the resources available to the organization, such as financial capital, personnel, and technology. If the organization does not have the resources needed to execute its strategy, it may not be able to reach its goals.
• Unclear goals: Without clearly defined and measurable objectives, it can be difficult to determine whether the strategy is being executed effectively. Goals need to be specific and achievable in order to be effective.
• Poor communication: If the strategy is not clearly communicated to all personnel, it will be difficult to execute effectively. Everyone involved in the strategy must understand their roles and responsibilities in order to ensure success.
• Inadequate structure: The strategy must be supported with the right organizational structure and systems in order to be successful. If the right structures and systems are not in place, it can be difficult to execute the strategy effectively.

Other approaches related to execution of strategy

In addition to assessing the current state of the organization, developing achievable goals and objectives, implementing actions to reach those goals, and continuously monitoring and adjusting the strategy to ensure it remains on track, other approaches related to the execution of strategy include:

• Prioritizing tasks: Identifying, assigning, and scheduling tasks that are essential to achieving the strategy’s goals and objectives.
• Aligning resources: Allocating the right people, time, and money to support the implementation of the strategy.
• Measuring progress: Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress of the strategy and identify areas for improvement.
• Adapting the strategy: Adjusting the strategy as needed to respond to changing conditions and ensure it remains relevant.
• Creating a culture of execution: Promoting a culture that is committed to executing the strategy and rewarding employees for their efforts.

Execution of strategy — recommended articles

Strategy of the organization — Strategic plan — Strategic control — Strategy deployment — Business drivers — Structure follows strategy — Strategic agility — Implementation of change — Portfolio management processes

References

• Neilson, G. L., Martin, K. L., & Powers, E. (2008). The secrets to successful strategy execution. Harvard business review, 86(6).