When strategy fails to achieve expected results, is it because the
strategy was ill-conceived or the execution was flawed?
Research is pointing more and more to problems with execution. It
certainly is not a slam dunk. The failure to execute is a major
concern of executives because it limits organizational growth,
adaptability, and competitiveness. Executives are not judged by the
brilliance of their strategy, but by their ability to implement it.
The problem is how to close the gap between strategy and actual
results.
The disconnect between strategy and implementation can be bridged
by inserting a new planning step between strategic planning and
project management. This new step, called execution planning, is a
creative process to identify, communicate, and implement
initiatives to achieve strategic goals.
Execution offers HR and training the spotlight they need to prove
value as a business partner. All that is needed is the willingness
to start executing.