Simplifying Strategy and Prioritizing Initiatives

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The chapter discusses the challenges faced by organizations in strategic planning and initiatives, emphasizing the need to simplify and focus on activities that create value. It introduces a three-phase approach to strategy and explores the importance of creativity and differentiation in standing out from the competition.

Have you ever put a lot of time and energy into strategy work, but instead of finding clarity, ended up even more overwhelmed by conflicting priorities?

Harvard Business School professor Felix Oberholzer-Gee says it doesn’t have to be this way. He argues that all companies should simplify and focus on two value drivers: customer satisfaction and employee satisfaction.

In this episode, he offers step-by-step guidance for implementing a value-based strategy in your organization, using a “value map.” He also explains why it’s important to separate financial planning from strategic planning.

Key episode topics include: strategy, creativity, design thinking, Starbucks, Apple, aesthetics, design, customer centricity, consumer research, competition.

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