A good strategy is essential to achieving any significant objective. When you know that you need to bring about something hard, it is wise to think through the strategy that you will use to realize it, and the Purpose Pyramid is a great tool for doing so.
A good strategy:
- Is a framework with depth and dimensionality to deal with uncertainty
- Provides long-term vision
- Defines the goal being pursued
- Sets a direction forward
- Identifies critical near-term objectives
- Communicates all of the above clearly and coherently, and therefore
- Enables decision making
The Purpose Pyramid specifically captures a strategy in 5 key elements:
- Purpose: A clear statement of what you are trying to achieve
- Pillars: The three key accomplishments required to achieve the purpose.
- Plans: The three specific activities under each pillar that you are currently pursuing to accomplish that pillar.
- Principles: The non-negotiable values that will not be compromised in achieving the purpose. The ends do not justify the means.
- Panorama: The environment within which the strategy is being pursued.
In the article linked below I explain, for the Purpose Pyramid:- What It Is- When to Use It- How to Use It
And I provide additional resources for learning more about this valuable tool.
This article is part of a series I am writing on the hard decisions that leaders face and the tools that can help.
Let me know if there’s a hard decision that you are facing. I might have some insight in how best to approach it.
You can read all about the Purpose Pyramid here.