Strategy Deployment
Kaplan's Stage 1 of the Balanced Scorecard system begins with Strategy Development, focusing on crafting the organization's Vision, Mission, and Value Statements. Using the SWOT Analysis Tool (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to shape these guiding principles has proven successful, building confidence in the process.
Objectives and Programs
Stage 2 focuses on translating the Vision and Mission into actionable Objectives and Programs. By defining SMART Targets (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound), organizations can break down their goals into actionable steps. Linking these objectives to performance metrics has consistently delivered convincing results.
Planning
Stage 3 of Kaplan’s Balanced Scorecard system focuses on Strategy Deployment, requiring a detailed and foolproof plan. Applying the 80-20 rule (Pareto Principle) effectively prioritized efforts. Teams dedicated time to crafting value-driven plans without disrupting ongoing operations. A well-debated, collaboratively agreed-upon plan among leaders smoothed the transition to the next stage, ensuring a less challenging implementation process.
Deployment of the Strategy
Stage 4 of Kaplan’s Balanced Scorecard system centers on
Action—operationalizing the plan, akin to the ‘Do’ phase of Deming’s Cycle.
Organizations that thoroughly addressed potential risks and mitigation
strategies in the planning phase executed implementation more effectively.
Teams and individuals embraced the ideas willingly, fostering widespread
engagement. The energy was palpable, and positive results began to surface
quickly.
Reviews and Actions
The final stage of Kaplan’s Balanced Scorecard system aligns
with the Check and Act phases of Deming’s PDCA Cycle. Reports are generated,
analyzed, and dissected to assess cost-benefit, profitability, and performance
time correlations before and after strategy deployment. Insights from these
analyses drive refinements, with actions being adjusted or intensified to
optimize outcomes, ensuring continuous improvement and alignment with strategic
goals.