

How the right operating model can fix a strategy that falls short
9 snips Jul 29, 2025
Dickie Steele, a Partner at McKinsey, discusses how the right operating model can significantly bridge the gap between strategy and performance for organizations. He highlights that even top companies miss out on 30% of their potential due to misalignment. The conversation covers innovative operating models, tailoring decision-making to unique organizational identities, and the importance of adaptability in today’s business environment. The hosts playfully explore cultural communication differences, showcasing how these factors influence organizational dynamics.
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Speed and Skills Drive Redesign
- The accelerating pace of change and new skill requirements drive the need to redesign operating models.
- Clarity and accountability in operating models help secure leadership and employee commitment.
Why Smart Strategies Fail
- Many smart strategies fail because people do not embrace the strategy and organizational structure is often misaligned.
- The operating model needs clarity, speed, skill alignment, and commitment to succeed.
Don’t Start With Structure
- Avoid focusing first on organizational structure when changing an operating model.
- Consider other organizational elements as structure changes can cause change fatigue and don’t solve all problems.