Blog
Practical thoughts on strategy, projects and getting results.
Project impact on operating performance
Pulling together Projects usually exist to improve operating performance. The project creates something to improve output, speed, quality or safety, to be more competitive, or to save money. Often the project does two…
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Is your strategy good enough to eat?
Clarity of strategy is key to execution. It needs to be shared in bite-sized chunks so it can be consumed and feed action. I once wrote a marketing plan which was well received. My manager then told me it should align…
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A fresh pair of eyes helps you grow
A fresh pair of eyes – Image by Freepik A fresh pair of eyes – how it helps me Each year I get to hear about great ideas being implemented around the world. And I get to ask the people who lead those initiatives any…
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Transformation creates value. Are you transforming or tinkering?
Just playing or will it fly? Credit: Image by brgfx on Freepik Transformation creates value while tinkering just keeps us busy. Transformation is driven by a strategic focus on being in a different place in the future.…
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Project success vs organisational success
Success – image by Freepik Projects implement strategic change. If a project meets its goals (succeeds) then the organisation meets its goals (succeeds). Right? Well maybe. Let’s take a closer look at success, value,…
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The Value for Money (VfM) gap
Managing the value for money gap – Image credit: Dooder on Freepik What is the Value for Money gap? The value for money gap is a lack of confidence that money is being spent on the right things and in the best way to…
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What is a feasibility study?
Feasibility study Image credit: wayhomestudio on freepik A feasibility study is an early examination of the merits of an idea, proposal or project. It looks at whether or not it can be done, its likelihood of success…
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Back office key to delivering strategy
The back office is key to delivering strategy. Operational excellence is a deliberate state created by people, processes and systems aligned to create value. It doesn’t happen by accident. We know that making back…
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ERP return on investment (ROI)
ERP Credit: image by freepik Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems promise benefits but it takes time and effort to achieve the promised results. You need a recipe for success. An ERP system return on investment…
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Collaboration drives strategic success
Source: istockphoto.com Thinking Team Concept as an inclusive business success metaphor for creative teamwork and diversity strategy with 3D illustration elements. Some ideas bear repeating to get the message across.…
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Ensuring value for money when hiring consultants
Image by Freepik Consultants are an obvious target for cost savings. Why are you paying these people all this money? Fair question. Sometimes you shouldn’t. On the other hand, consultants are called in at short notice…
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Don’t start a project you can’t finish
Source: Phil Guerin 2023 Many projects go over budget and take longer than expected. Some just fail or need to be rescued. The Corinth Canal was a fascinating project. Read the story below and consider the lessons at…
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