Bringing Strategy Back

About the Author

Jeffrey Sampler is an adjunct professor of strategy and technology at China Europe International Business School. His research interests include the strategic implications of new technology and the management of information as a strategic resource. He has been featured in Newsweek, BBC Television, CNBC, Economic Times, and Financial Mail. Sampler’s work is distinguished by its deep dives into the nuances of strategic planning in volatile and rapidly evolving markets, drawing from his extensive research and practical insights.

Main Idea

In "Bringing Strategy Back: How Strategic Shock Absorbers Make Planning Relevant in a World of Constant Change," Jeffrey Sampler addresses the inadequacies of traditional strategic planning tools in today’s fast-paced, unpredictable business environment. He introduces the concept of "Strategic Shock Absorbers"—Accuracy, Agility, Momentum, and Foresight—as mechanisms that enable organizations to absorb shocks and maintain operational speed without destabilizing. This approach ensures that strategic planning is not merely reactive but proactive and preemptive, allowing businesses to thrive amidst continuous change.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Strategic Shock Absorbers
3. Accuracy: Creating Order and Transparency
4. Agility: Seizing and Repeating Opportunities
5. Momentum: Speeding Past Shocks and Surprises
6. Foresight: Getting Ahead of Change and Chaos
7. Execution: Shock Absorbers in Action
8. Driven by Values
9. Management Innovation from Fast-Moving Markets

Introduction

In today’s business landscape, the pace of change is relentless. The five-year strategic planning horizon, once a staple of corporate strategy, is now often impractical. Traditional strategic tools fail to keep up with rapidly closing windows of opportunity, uneven growth rates, and asymmetric competition. Sampler argues that what is needed is a strategic framework that absorbs shocks and surprises efficiently, ensuring that strategic planning remains relevant and actionable. This framework is built on four Strategic Shock Absorbers: Accuracy, Agility, Momentum, and Foresight. These elements work together to help organizations navigate and thrive amidst global turbulence.

Strategic Shock Absorbers

Just as cars need shock absorbers to maintain speed and stability on rough roads, businesses need mechanisms to handle unexpected changes without losing momentum. Sampler introduces four Strategic Shock Absorbers that provide the necessary resilience:

• Accuracy: Delivers on-target forecasting and enables granularity and specificity.
• Agility: Provides speed and flexibility in strategic options.
• Momentum: Ensures continuity and minimizes disruption.
• Foresight: Enhances capability for sense-making and scanning the external environment.

Accuracy: Creating Order and Transparency

Accuracy in strategic planning means having a clear understanding of both internal capabilities and the external competitive environment. It involves precise forecasting and detailed awareness, enabling organizations to identify and capitalize on growth opportunities while addressing performance gaps. Tools such as decision triggers, management by majlis, and developing strategic wedges are crucial for achieving accuracy.