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Number 11 - Strategy vs Reality

From Strategy to Reality: Why Execution Matters More Than Perfect Plans

I have been part of many conversations on vision, strategy, ideology and similar all so important topics in varying context. Endless discussions on finding the perfect answer for the problem in question. Time that was definitely well spent because the direction of an organization is essential; we can't run like headless chicken following the latest trend just because.

But we have to be aware of what actually matters. And that is how are plans are going to be executed. Even the most well thought plan can utterly fail to meet expectations if improperly executed - the same applies for poor plans that were enthusiastically carried out. Often, obsessing over the optimal plan can be counter-productive.

The impact of execution can be witnessed in a variety of settings from the very mundane and simple to the elaborate and complex. A non optimal workout schedule can bring impressive results if followed consistently. A well meaning law can be misinterpreted by unwilling public workers and corrupt lawyers and thus have little to no results. 

This mechanism also applies to technology companies: high leadership ultimately depends on middle management. Even the most brilliant HR policy will have no result if not correctly implemented by the team leaders and all technology programs can be meaningful under the right conditions.

I have also personally witnessed this in my workplace. I have been blessed to contribute to an environment with effective leadership but this doesn't necessarily apply to other teams or departments. Even though they follow the exact same company policies, I feel like they are wholly different organizations! That means we need to very carefully pick our leaders and not insulate ourselves with pleasers and yes men but people who are willing to interpret the intent of a plan on their own terms because that's the only way they can convince their team to make it work.



Comments

  1. TouliAugust 4, 2024 at 2:50 PM

    Maybe the optimal plan is the one that people can realistically follow, so one of the criteria when deciding on a strategy is: will the people of the country/the team members be able to understand it/ be inspired by it/agree with it?

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