Strategy Execution

This course takes strategy as given and teaches what students need to know to execute and win in highly competitive markets. Using fundamental building blocks based on accountability systems and structures, this course is divided into seven modules:

1. Allocating resources to customers: Students learn how to choose a primary customer and allocate resources to market-facing and operating core units in a way that delivers maximum value to those customers.
2. Prioritizing core values: Students learn how and when to create core values and beliefs systems to prioritize the needs of customers, employees, and shareholders.
3. Tracking performance goals: Students learn how to select a small number of critical performance variables and design management control systems to track progress in achieving key goals.
4. Controlling strategic risk: Students learn how to identify various types of internal and external risks and implement internal controls and boundary systems to protect your business franchise.
5. Spurring innovation: Students learn how to design systems and structures to push people out of their comfort zone, foster creative tension, and drive innovation and entrepreneurial behavior.
6. Building commitment: students learn how to use systems and structures to build an organization culture that motivates people to help others achieve shared goals.
7. Adapting to change: Students learn how to identify the strategic uncertainties that could upend your strategy, build early warning systems, and adapt current strategies to changing competitive conditions.

Concepts are developed and explored using case studies in both early-stage and mature firms in a variety of industries. By the end of the course, students will have gained the practical knowledge and confidence to execute strategy, measure performance, deliver results, and win in any competitive market