The Leadership Mirror
November 15, 2024
Recently, a long-time client reached out to me. It had been several years since we last worked together. At the time, we did such a thorough job that there wasn’t an immediate need for ongoing support. However, just like with cars and boats, businesses need periodic tune-ups.
Businesses grow, markets shift; leaders need to refine strategies to keep up with the competition.
When I met with the client, it was clear their strategic goals needed a fresh perspective. They had ambitious new ideas, but the challenge was translating those into actionable steps that the entire organization could align with. This is where the Hoshin Kanri X matrix came into play.
For those unfamiliar, the Hoshin Kanri X matrix is a powerful strategic planning tool. It bridges the gap between long-term goals and daily operations, offering a clear visualization of how strategic objectives connect with necessary breakthroughs, annual targets, and improvement priorities.
Using this tool, we began by reviewing the company’s performance and identifying areas that needed breakthroughs. But having a solid strategy is only half the battle. The real challenge was ensuring everyone – from leadership to frontline employees – understood and committed to these new goals.
Here’s where I like to use the analogy of “catch the ball.” In this process, leaders figuratively toss the strategic goals throughout the organization. Each layer of the company must catch, understand, and act on them before tossing feedback and progress reports to leaders. It’s a constant cycle of communication and alignment that ensures everyone stays on track.
After working through the Hoshin Kanri process, the client saw renewed focus and clarity. Leaders became more engaged, staff felt more connected to the company’s vision, and progress was clear across departments.
Done right, Hoshin Kanri doesn’t just align an organization – it rejuvenates the organization, turning stagnation into momentum.
The Future Is Now
Jesus (Jes) Vargas is the Principal at DPMG Corp in Sacramento, CA. He and his team consult, coach, and mentor business leaders in strategic planning, leadership development, and project management.
They’re ready to help clients plan a new product or fine-tune an existing marketing strategy.
