Smarter Execution: Seven steps to getting results

Chapter . Introduction

You want it. We had it.

The notice was posted on a Japanese electronics shop: ‘You Want It. We Had It.’ It was nothing more than a slip-of-the-sign, a Japanese storekeeper who needed at least one more class in English translation. Yet, we’d suggest that all of us can learn a great deal about managing strategic initiatives by thinking about that sign. We have seen many companies come up with a great idea – a dazzling new product idea or an alluring new service – only to find that, despite the fact that the marketplace was hoping and waiting for such an idea, the ability to bring the idea to life was lost in mismanagement.

This is why execution is such a hot concept right now in B-schools and executive suites. And this is precisely ...