The Challenge

Effective strategy execution requires optimization and implementation of many processes, both strategic and operational, which processes, in turn, consist of many specialized techniques and frameworks.  Historically, strategy management and operations management have lacked a common framework or platform to fully integrate the two, severely impeding effective and efficient execution.  Indeed, research indicates that this lack of integration between strategy and operations is a major causal factor in the failure of organizations to achieve the goals of their strategic agenda.  The challenge and the objective of this program are to develop that common foundation to underpin and enable linkage between strategic and operational processes in pursuit of effective strategy execution. 

The Approach

We are using a “Working Group” approach to address this challenge and to develop a comprehensive solution.

The approach has proven extremely effective in addressing a number of similar issues in the past. As Dave Norton describes it— “The initial development of the Balanced Scorecard itself came from a multi-organization working group and since then we have used this (working group) approach to build our understanding and capabilities in Human Capital Management and The Office of Strategy Management.  Most recently we have used working groups to explore issues such as: how to sustain effective strategy execution and how to build a double-loop management system.  Essentially we bring together a group of capable people from good companies and organizations to solve a common problem that all believe is important to them.  The key ingredient we use is a core model that everyone builds on.  Through the interactions and contributions of the members we work toward a shared solution.  Using this approach we have been successful in producing a number of significant innovations which have gone on to become standard management practice in many cases.”

The Working Group objective is to develop effective methodologies that link strategies and operational processes in each of seven strategic themes:

1. Innovation and growth
2. Customer management
3. Operational efficiency
4. Social and regulatory
5. Human capital competencies
6. Cultural climate
7. Enabling technology

For each area the following topics will be addressed:

1. The strategy/operations integrating framework
2. The linked process/measure models
3. The “Theme Team” management process
4. The integrated information system

The Program

The program provides a forum for up to 25 organizations to work together over an 18-month period (June 2008 to December 2009) to develop and validate the next generation of management solutions to link strategy and operations in facilitated interaction via workshops, peer exchange, net-conference sessions, and dialogue with experts. 

The methodology is based on a modular approach with each module focused on one of the seven strategic themes. Each module will be developed in accordance with the following structure: 

1.  The Strategy/Operations Integrating Framework:

a. Survey of the field

b. White paper review of prevalent practices and  methodologies

c.  Expert overview and consultation with subject matter experts

2.  Linked Process/Measure Models:

a. Palladium database to identify frequently used objectives, measures and initiatives

b. Published industry examples

3.  Theme-Team Management Process:

a. Identification of best practices

b. Potential tailoring for participants management teams

4.  Integrated Information System:

a.  Examination of vendor approaches

b.  Development of dashboard prototypes

 

Each module will benefit from the leadership and active participation of Drs. Robert Kaplan and David Norton. 

For further information on the approach and program please click here.

To date the Group has successfully completed work on the initial strategic theme of innovation and growth.  There are a limited number of spaces available for organizations to participate in the five remaining modules

Deliverables

Each module will include:

1. A workbook
2. Case examples
3. Selected best practices
4. A prototype integrated model that members can use to customize their own solution

Community members will also have access to a portal providing knowledge repository, inquiry support, and member profiles.

Workshops

Workshops are scheduled to take place on:

October 16^th and 17^th 2008 in Cambridge, MA

Three dates during 2009.

 

 

Membership

Members will agree to:

• Collaborate freely
• Share experiences
• Be willing to test proposed solutions

An atmosphere of mutual trust and confidentiality will be encouraged

Testimonials

Over 85 organizations have participated in our Working Group programs with high overall satisfaction scores and retention rates over 80%.

Fees

The fee for the overall program is $80,000, entitling member organizations to three seats at all events and unlimited virtual access. 

To Learn More

Contact:

Randall Russell, program director, at rrussell@thepalladiumgroup.com or 781.402.1116

Geoff Fenwick, at gfenwick@thepalladiumgroup.com  or 781.402.1109