Golden triangle of strategy

I’ve been giving a bit of thought lately about what it takes to prepare and implement a great strategy. We all know that a strategy document itself is only one part of something bigger, but what does it take to really get traction? I’ve been mulling over what I’m thinking of as a golden triangle of strategy, made up of facilitation, strategic planning and governance.

First up, a quick recap on the value of each element…….

💡 Facilitation is the process of guiding effective interactions and helping make people’s lives easier, and it can play a crucial role in decision-making, problem-solving and working through conflict. We all know that planning is as much about the process as it is the final product, and having that process supported through skilled facilitation allows the planning process and workshops to be inclusive, focused and productive. I’ve been that leader who facilitates their team’s planning process, and it’s something I love doing, but there can be significant value having an independent facilitator to guide and gently challenge your thinking throughout the process.

🗝 Strategic planning is a tool used to define goals, outline the actions needed to achieve them, and establish a process for monitoring progress of implementation. It captures an organisation’s mission, core principles, and describes a vision or desired future. Your strategic plan provides a framework for decision making on priorities and resource allocation based on the broader operating environment.

✨ Governance refers to the systems, processes and structures that guide decision making and accountability in an organisation. Yes, it means governance boards and other decision makers, but it also refers to ensuring the organisation operates in alignment with its mission, vision and objectives, and how you monitor delivery and compliance. Having the right governance frameworks engaged in both the planning process and delivery of your strategy can mean the difference between a great plan that sits on the shelf and one that actually delivers your change agenda.

The way I see these concepts forming a golden triangle of strategy:

✨ Governance forms the enabling environment for creating the strategy as well as accountability for its delivery. It also ensures strategic decisions are implemented, monitored and adjusted.

💡 Facilitation supports effective strategy development, through inclusive processes that support alignment among stakeholders.

🗝 Strategic planning informs governance decisions by defining priorities, resource allocation and structure.

Pull them all together and you have the environment for supporting meaningful impact for your organisation and stakeholders!

As I continue to refine my golden triangle idea, I’ve love to know what you’ve found are the critical factors for developing and delivering a great strategy?