Monthly Archives: June 2009

This is a true story. On a hot day, I put money into a vending machine to get a drink. The machine accepted my money, but no product was dispensed. As I was thinking about what to do next, I … Continue reading →

“A reflection of the complexity in reconciling multiple perspectives and interests in the face of imperfect information and human emotions.”

The two questions your audience will ask are: “So what?” Answering this prevents analysis paralysis, draws attention to cause-effect relationships and help you start with the end in mind. If done properly, this may lead you to nix proposals that … Continue reading →

A plea to ‘start with the end in mind’ falls on deaf ears. The organization is consumed by activities, projects and initiatives and yet customer satisfaction seems to be dropping. This happens when outcomes are not clearly defined. Some people … Continue reading →

If you ever feel like you are driving thru a fog, with low visibility, you probably are. Its the nagging feeling of not knowing what to expect and the sick feeling that something bad is imminent. If that happens, then … Continue reading →

All tasks have upstream and downstream connections. They are part of a ‘value stream’. To get the definition of ‘done’, pick your ‘start’ and ‘end’ points. Negotiate with your stakeholders so they are clear where your boundaries are. Adjust your … Continue reading →

‘Variance’ is the difference between desired and actual. If you know the customer’s tolerance for variance, you can fine tune your offering to provide it in a cost effective manner. To get the product or service out to the customer, … Continue reading →

An example recycled many times over, funny when delivered with the right timing. “In creating the content for breakfast, the pig is committed (bacon) whereas the hen is involved (egg).” When building a team to execute strategy, whom would you … Continue reading →

Have you sat in meetings where the discussion is all over the place? This is not always a skill issue. After all, there is enough knowledge on how to run an effective meeting and principles of facilitation is a well … Continue reading →

When executing strategy, the road often seems long and the weary don’t get enough rest. To keep the team morale up, celebrate successes. The first question is what to celebrate? First understand two anchor points: Where you were at the … Continue reading →