Articles—Issue 4, November 2005
I heard from many people after the last issue of this newsletter (The Top 10 Reasons Strategic Plans Fail), which you can read here. Several commented on how it is wasteful to even plan if you can't execute. Bingo!
Many business leaders struggle with getting their plans implemented. A well written plan is useless without good execution. In fact, a mediocre plan, well executed, is preferable to a great plan that is not implemented well. To that point, I hope that you find this brief checklist useful in executing your plan. If you have thoughts or comments, please let me know.
A CEO's Battle Plan for Execution
Execution Checklist
Is there alignment within the organization around a specific discipline?
o Customer Intimacy
o Innovation/Product Leadership
o Operational Excellence
Is there well-thought-out, written strategic plan developed in a collaborative fashion?
Are the correct players in the right jobs?
Are expectations clear and measurable with definite timelines?
Are the right tools and resources in place to succeed?
Do YOU have a consistent follow-up process in place?
Rule #1: Leaders get the behavior that they exhibit and tolerate.
Rule #2: People, expectations, tools and follow-up process must ALL be in place for excellent execution.
Rule #3: Execution cannot be delegated. Everyone from the CEO to the front-line employee must focus on it.
Rule #4: This is not easy and will take much time and energy to get good at. You must adhere to these guidelines CONSISTENTLY if you want excellent execution. This is not an event, but rather must become part of the DNA of the company.
(c)2005 by Tood Ordal. You are welcome to share this informational article with others.
Todd Ordal is a business consultant helping executives struggling with execution. Prior to founding the consulting firm Applied Strategy LLC, Todd spent over 25 years in management and executive roles such as President and CEO. You can contact Todd at todd@appliedstrategy.info