Strategy is first on the list as this is where an initiative starts but it was the least of the stated problems.

Issues cited were “lack of or poor vision”, “mis-alignment”, “project selection” and “wrong decisions”.

CEOs often take the blame for this but we note it can be a bit of fait accompli when other factors are the more direct cause of failure. In our experience, leadership typically has a viable direction but lacks a fully dedicated team with the right skill set and experience.

IaaS Fit : Experience

We run an objective assessment of the existing strategy based on relevant experience. We are not afraid to question assumptions, skill sets, incentives, culture and commitment to determine the major risk factors. These become the priorities and building blocks for the project phases.

Structure was the highest ranked factor of them all.

Issues cited were failure to “prepare”, “innovate”, “engage”, “integrate”, “act”, “execute ideas”. Pretty much overall implementation.

Also noted were lack of “market orientation”, “framework”, “measurement” and “bureaucracy”. These are often the result of trying to get results with the wrong tool set.

IaaS Fit : WoW, Framework for Agile Innovation

Our key insight is that companies are designed to run on proven processes. Strategic innovation is fundamentally different from business as usual and the company typically struggles to execute against a challenge of a different nature.

We believe a better way to address this is with a dedicated and experienced resource. Ideally it will align with the existing resources, but if existing processes and culture are too much of a constraint, it will be free to pursue a more effective path.

Culture was the 2nd most cited issue. We understand.

Issues cited include organizational norms, priorities, politics, barriers and inability to learn and/or change as needed.

IaaS Fit : Entrepreneurial Experience, WoW

Our experience has shown the need for a completely different mindset to take on the challenge of strategic innovation. The problems are harder to solve, success is uncertain and the way forward unclear. This is not the preferred job for everyone.

The best way we found to address this is with a separate entity and charter run by a diverse, risk tolerant team of creative problem solvers. The makeup is not necessary for business as usual but will be the difference when you need to make a difference.

Problems noted here relate to leadership and talent.

Other than the obvious issues with specific sub-par skills for a task, the lack of executive support / commitment can kill any strategic initiative.

IaaS Fit : Entrepreneurial Experience, WoW, Diversity

Our initial assessment places a high priority on committed executive sponsorship.

Once a champion has been confirmed, an XTM can supply the necessary leadership and initiative to get the strategic initiative started. We’ve been there. We’ve done it.