Strategy Survival Guide

Strategy Survival Guide Version 2.1
Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit
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Strategy Development > Research & Analysis > Tasks
Reviewing delivery capability
The knowledge gathering and analysis process should also generate an understanding of the structure and
dynamics of the delivery system, and the culture and resources of organisations within it. This will provide
valuable context for the development of the new strategy by identifying the strengths that can be built upon,
highlighting inefficient structures and processes that need to be re-visited, and gauging the overall capacity
of the system to change. Considering delivery capability at this stage, rather than as a post-strategy
implementation exercise, is essential if the new strategy is to be truly deliverable.
System Structure & Dynamics
The starting point for reviewing delivery capability is to understand the structure and dynamics of the system.
This will involve understanding the role of each organisation in the delivery system and the nature of the
relationships between them. It will be of particular interest to examine each organisation’s focus and priorities
and explore the degree to which these are shared across the system. In addition, the sources and formulae
for funding, the flows of information, and the arrangements for accountability and decision making all play a
key role in determining the dynamics and performance of the system.
Organisational Culture
An understanding of organisational culture will highlight the context in which any change will have to take
place. The underlying values and beliefs of a culture shape the more visible aspects of an organisation such
as behaviours and systems, and will have an important influence on the capacity of an organisation to adopt
the implications of the new strategy. Identifying key decision-makers and those who hold power is also
important for gaining buy-in and ensuring successful delivery.
Available Resources
Consideration should also be given to the available resources and competencies of organisations in the
delivery system. Identifying relevant areas of expertise will enable the new strategy to be shaped to
capitalise on existing strengths. It is also helpful to identify any gaps in an organisation’s activities or
competencies, and any existing resource or budget commitments, that may limit their ability to deliver the
new strategy.
This understanding of delivery capability provides a guide to the starting point and the context for future
change. As the new strategy is developed it will help to identify the extent of change required for successful
implementation, and provide an indication of how feasible this will be.
Useful links:
> organisational analysis
Strategy Survival Guide – Strategy Development
Page 25