Digital (R)evolution

Chapter 6Strategy vs. Execution

Executive Summary: In this chapter, we unveil the five-step SPARQ process for planning and following through with strategic digital transformations. We also look at the execution challenges posed by matrix reporting structures in the modern decentralized enterprise.

In the movie Groundhog Day, Bill Murray's character is forced to repeat the same day over and over. At first, he feels that he is cursed and doomed. Gradually, however, he realizes that his entrapment is a blessing in disguise, because it gives him the chance to become a far better person than he was before.

This brings me to the first rule of strategy: the first 100 days must be repeated continuously. Moreover, you must continuously communicate the goals and objectives of your transformation strategy. You must communicate at a steady cadence to assure the message is getting through. That's the only way to guarantee lasting change in the business environment.

As a simple exercise, ask yourself when you last heard your organization's strategy stated or restated. If you haven't heard it in a while, your organization is drawing its inferences and deciphering the path for themselves. Lather, rinse, and repeat. Over and over. You simply cannot overstate the value of over-communicating.

A Blend of Science and Sentiment

Transformational change requires a special kind of leadership. Essentially, transformational leadership is a blend of science and sentiment.

Being a transformational leader ...