Unblocking strategy: Understanding the barriers to strategy implementation

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint 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

Casting aside the well-worn mantras about failure in management circles – “Fail to prepare and prepare to fail,”, etc. – and then when reading about management techniques or strategy, there is often a focus on what managers SHOULD do are actions they MUST take, rather than any highlighting of what NOT to do in a given situation. Management case studies do include failures sometimes, with estimated failures of strategy implementation of up to 70 per cent, a large proportion of those ever see the light of day.

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

(2019), "Unblocking strategy: Understanding the barriers to strategy implementation", Strategic Direction, Vol. 35 No. 7, pp. 28-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-04-2019-0078