All in on Alignment

In my last post, Focusing on What Matters, we explored how committing to what matters is key to good strategic planning. In this post we’ll get into the key role alignment plays in turning these commitments into results.

Why Alignment Matters

Strong alignment turns strategy into coordinated action. When boards, executives, and employees pull toward shared objectives, several powerful shifts occur:

1. Silos Weaken

   Most organizations have silos. A well-constructed plan weakens these silos by creating a common understanding of, and commitment to, the organization’s strategic priorities.   

   
   

2. Coherence Strengthens

   Without alignment, coordination weakens and distraction sets in. Alignment keeps everyone bound to the plan’s priorities.

   
   

3. Engagement Increases

   Engagement increases when people understand they are part of a larger team working in concert to achieve higher goals. 

How to Build Alignment Through Strategic Planning

Alignment is not accidental – it happens by design.  And the most effective way to design it is through the strategic planning process. 

1. Priority Creation Begins Alignment

   A strong planning process encourages executive debate, goal clarification and ultimately executive alignment around strategic priorities.

   
   

2. Initiative Creation Expands Alignment

   Once the strategic priorities are set, an expanded group of employees designs the strategic initiatives that support the priorities. This process extends alignment to the expanded group. 

   
   

3. Communication Spreads & Reinforces Alignment

   Clear and consistent communication will extend alignment deeper into the organization. Key here is explaining why the priorities are important, and how each employee has an important role to play. 

Bottom Line

Alignment is one of the most powerful levers in the strategic planning process – pulling it effectively will dramatically increase the odds of a plan’s success.