Oil's well that ends well: Uniting structure with strategy

Abstract

Purpose

Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

In today's challenging economic climate and increasingly tough business world, organizations can only hope to succeed if everyone and everything is pulling in the same direction. If not, leaders must make a beeline for the road towards change. Strategic renewal often enjoys prominence on change agendas. In many cases, it will prompt a radical transformation of strategy. However, this can prove a knee‐jerk reaction with one common mistake being a failure to ensure fit with current or future business environments. But the best strategy in the world will only have a limited impact without the support of an appropriate structure. Indeed, alignment between strategy and structure is a must. Astute companies appreciate this. Many, however, remain misguided and allow short‐term financial goals to drive structure change. In such cases, the bigger picture is largely ignored.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2009), "Oil's well that ends well: Uniting structure with strategy", Strategic Direction, Vol. 25 No. 10, pp. 22-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540910993032