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  • December 2016 (Revised May 2018)
  • Module Note

Strategy Execution Module 15: Using the Levers of Control to Implement Strategy

By: Robert Simons
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:21
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Abstract

This module reading pulls together key concepts and techniques from the Strategy Execution series into an integrated model—the levers of control. The four levers are: (1) belief systems, (2) boundary systems, (3) diagnostic control systems, and (4) interactive control systems. The module discusses how top managers use the levers of control to inspire commitment to the organization’s purpose; stake out the territory for experimentation and competition; coordinate and monitor the execution of today’s strategies; and stimulate and guide the search for strategies of the future. The power of this integrated approach to strategy implementation is illustrated in two contexts: the introduction of performance measurement and control systems over the life cycle of a growing business and the use of the levers by managers taking charge of a new business. While this module is designed to be used alone, it is part of the Strategy Execution series. Taken together, the series forms a complete course that teaches the latest techniques for using performance measurement and control systems to implement strategy. Modules 1 - 4 set out the foundations for strategy implementation. Modules 5 - 10 teach quantitative tools for performance measurement and control. Modules 11 - 15 illustrate the use of these techniques by managers to achieve profit goals and strategies.

Keywords

Management Control Systems; Implementing Strategy; Execution; Levers Of Control; Balancing Innovation And Control; Managing Growing Businesses; Turn Around Management; Human Behavior; Organizational Life Cycle; Strategy; Management Systems; Performance; Measurement and Metrics; Management Analysis, Tools, and Techniques; Behavior

Citation

Simons, Robert. "Strategy Execution Module 15: Using the Levers of Control to Implement Strategy." Harvard Business School Module Note 117-115, December 2016. (Revised May 2018.)
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About The Author

Robert Simons

Accounting and Management
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Related Work

    • March 2017 (Revised May 2017)
    • Faculty Research

    The Strategy Execution Series

    By: Robert Simons and Jennifer Packard
    • December 2016 (Revised May 2018)
    • Faculty Research

    Strategy Execution Module 15: Using the Levers of Control to Implement Strategy

    By: Robert Simons
Related Work
  • The Strategy Execution Series By: Robert Simons and Jennifer Packard
  • Strategy Execution Module 15: Using the Levers of Control to Implement Strategy By: Robert Simons
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