This post has looks at the Hock Principle: what it is, examples in practice, and implications for strategy and project management. It ends with a short video from Dee Hock himself. What Is the Hock Principle? Dee Hock, founder of credit card giant VISA, developed a maxim which became known as The Hock Principle. The … Read more
This post looks under the hood at various aspects of brainstorming – unlocking our collective minds to solve problems and seize opportunities. It looks at the importance of brainstorming, key elements and the natural brainstorming process, and approaches to brainstorming unique to strategy and project management. Why is brainstorming important? Sticky, thorny, unclear problems require … Read more
This post looks at building digital business value chains, and how they are a natural extension of traditional, low-tech value chains. It explores the impact to strategy, and links to several relevant strategy models and frameworks for analyzing digital opportunities and approaches. Finally, it looks at what it takes to implement digital value chains on … Read more
This post looks at the opportunities and challenges of digital technology transformation – and delves into HOW to do it. It looks at the whole picture – all elements required for a successful change transformation – which boils down to a more cultural and human set of obstacles than technology hurdles. What Is Digital Transformation? … Read more
A Feasibility Study tells you whether it’s even possible to achieve the objective of a potential project, and can also point to the solution with the best chance of success. This post explores when you need a Feasibility Study, the process for doing one, and strategic and project management impacts. It also asks what IA … Read more
This post explores the nuances of writing a business case. It dives into the elements of a business case: identifying a problem or opportunity analyzing ways to solve the problem or seize the opportunity choosing the best option (or choosing to walk away) developing an implementation approach It proves a solid template and associated resources … Read more
This post looks at the major elements of the Project Charter and how they link back to strategy. It focuses on how to write a Project Charter – and then asks ChatGPT what it would include in a Project Charter! How to Write a Project Charter The Project Charter is often the first document that … Read more
This post explains how a Work Breakdown Structure can connect implementation to strategy. It can give deeper meaning to tasks at the individual level, and help align priorities to strategic objectives. At the core is purpose – for the organization, the project, and individual. A Strategic Work Breakdown Structure – from Objectives to Personal Tasks … Read more
Leadership is complicated. There are many tools and techniques out here – and yet we often default to using an approach that maps to what motivates and inspires us – but not necessarily others. This post reviews several common approaches to inspiring and motivating others. It then explores a simpler and more versatile approach that … Read more
When starting a new project, or new to a role in the organization, you are part of a change. So how can you add more certainty in this change that you are part of? This post explores a change process that can help, regardless of your role. It looks at the various organization situations, how … Read more