Thinkers360

Why Strategy Is Only as Good as Its Execution

Oct



The idea of a “perfect strategy” is as misleading as the promise of “happily ever after.” No matter how well-designed a strategy is, it is shaped by its execution. Great strategies can falter with poor implementation, while average ones can shine with excellent execution. The true brilliance of any strategy lies not in its design but in how effectively it’s brought to life.


After years of studying business leaders, I’ve observed four key imperatives that successful UK businesses focus on when it comes to execution.


1. Challenge Assumptions


Successful leaders question the status quo. Take Tesco, for example. When the company first launched its Clubcard loyalty program in the 1990s, it revolutionized retail by using customer data in ways its competitors hadn’t considered. Instead of just offering discounts, Tesco analyzed data to shape everything from store layout to product offerings. By questioning traditional retail practices, Tesco gained a significant edge, leading to a more personalised shopping experience and greater customer loyalty.


2. Empower Champions


For large strategies to work, leaders must inform the entire organization but empower key people to drive change. Consider how Unilever approached sustainability with its "Sustainable Living Plan." Unilever engaged all employees in the mission but relied on dedicated sustainability champions across various teams to lead product development and operations innovation. These champions helped the company reach its ambitious environmental goals without needing every single employee to move at the same pace. Early successes became internal case studies, fueling more widespread adoption.


3. Maintain Close Connections, Loosen Rules


In times of change, staying close to the front lines is critical. While restructuring in recent years, the Co-operative Group shifted from rigid controls to a more flexible, people-centric approach. By loosening procedural constraints and encouraging collaboration between its food, insurance, and funeral divisions, the company was able to meet challenges more effectively. Leaders connected closely with teams on the ground, ensuring they had the autonomy to adapt to local needs while working toward shared goals.


4. Adapt Quickly


Adaptation is key to successful execution. Marks & Spencer, once struggling with its clothing division, pivoted quickly by rethinking its product ranges and investing more in its food business, which was performing better. Rather than doubling down on underperforming areas, M&S shifted focus and adapted, leading to better overall performance and a renewed sense of direction for the business.


Execution Drives Strategy


Ultimately, strategy is not a one-time plan but an evolving process shaped by execution. Successful UK businesses like Tesco, Unilever, and Marks & Spencer demonstrate that how you implement a strategy determines its success. Instead of focusing on creating the "perfect" strategy, leaders should prioritize effective execution and adapt along the way. Only then can strategy deliver actual results.


Take Your Business to the Next Level


Visualise Solutions is a boutique strategy consultancy firm based in Leicestershire, UK. Transform your business with our strategic advisory services, focusing on innovation, strategy formulation, and execution. Utilise our expertise in strategy, business model innovation, OKRs, and balanced scorecards.


You can learn more about us by contacting us now.

By Andrew Constable MBA, BSP

Keywords: Business Strategy, Innovation, Leadership

Share this article