Crafting a Plan for Successful Execution: Tips and Best Practices

Defining and shaping strategy is a core component and the backbone of any business initiative.

Often, however, executing a strategy turns into a marathon on a hamster wheel rather than riding a train that is moving toward its destination. Moving the goal post, new direction on what to execute, competing priorities, and lack of clarity contribute to arduous and sometimes flawed or half-baked executions.

While organizations often make strides towards their strategic goals, without focusing on a succinct and documented execution strategy, those strides can sometimes swing back and forth and sideways — like a pendulum. Teams close to the details grind away at various tasks and activities seemingly making progress, without being able to demonstrate the value at the finish line.

To prevent a pendulum swing, defining an execution strategy that is effective and employing best practices is essential.

What should your execution look like?

Eye on the ball, with clarity. Always remain focused on the desired output.

Set a timeline. Though it is okay to move a timeline, be mindful that the initiative value may diminish over a lengthy execution period. Everything has a shelf life.

Stay connected with the strategic goals. If not, why are you doing it?

Prioritize and simplify. You cannot do it all if you have competing priorities. Sometimes one thing at a time is how you can get many things done. Know what the priorities are and treat the rest as ancillary activities.

Re-plan, but don’t make it a habit. Things change. If the finish line shifts, then re-plan. If the terrain to get to the finish line changes, then re-plan. If re-planning becomes a pattern, recognize it, address it, and make it to the finish line before the initiative starts to lose its significance and impact.

Bring in a navigator. Put seasoned leads in the navigation seat. They can tilt their heads to see blind spots the driver cannot. They can also manage the back-seat drivers, and help the driver stay focused on the journey.

Do not bite off more than you can chew. With a full mouth, you may be unable to communicate clearly. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.

Document your execution strategy and follow it. While there is such a thing as over documenting, it is a best practice and a necessity to put pen to paper and define your execution strategy. Document the 'what' and the 'how'. Develop a framework. Create a roadmap and build your execution plan accordingly. Stick to it. Without this, it is like constructing a house without a blueprint.

Lastly, make it as pleasant as possible. Enjoy the journey and create a positive environment for all involved.

Payal Nevatia-Garland,

Managing Partner, Canvas LLC

To implement any of these best practices or to assist with your execution, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

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