#73 Strategy storytelling: from the Reformation to successful digital transformation
This episode was recorded in German.
The art of strategy activation
Robert recently published his new book "Das große Buch der Strategie" with Vahlen Verlag. It offers a comprehensive look at the world of strategy work and is a must-have for anyone interested in strategy processes. In our podcast, Robert explains how stories and visuals help make strategies not just understood, but actually executed.
Company stories that move people
Robert makes the point that, at its best, a successful strategy is a compelling story a company tells about its own future. Stories have the power to move and motivate people. The strategic details, scenarios and analyses are woven into these stories. Honest self-reflection that openly names the negatives can be especially effective here.
The power of visualization in the strategy process
"Das große Buch der Strategie" features 11 portraits of executives and leaders responsible for transformation and strategy development. These real-world case studies show how companies overcome challenges and what role big picture visuals play in that. A big picture is more than a graphic: it's a visual representation of the company strategy that delivers a clear, understandable and memorable message.
Examples from practice
Robert describes a very positive big picture effect in the telecommunications industry, where a failed brand integration was visualized. The image, showing a construction site in a storm, motivated the team to do better at the next merger. Visuals like this help people reflect on the past and learn from mistakes.
Visual strategy work that works in mid-sized companies
It isn't only large corporations that benefit from this method. Mid-sized companies can also use visual strategy work to engage and motivate their employees. Family-run businesses, for example, can draw on their unique history and identity to inspire employees and successfully execute the company strategy.
An approach driven 100% by content
Robert explains that developing a big picture is entirely content-driven. Intensive interviews and analyses produce a detailed heat analysis that shows where the company agrees and where it diverges. Those results feed into the design of the big picture, which serves as a visual map and presents the strategic messages clearly and understandably.
The future of strategy work
Robert closes by pointing out that strategy work is constantly changing. Methods and tools have to evolve to keep up with rising demands and growing complexity. The Tatin Institute for Strategy Activation relies on innovative approaches to help companies turn their strategies into reality.
Takeaway
"Das große Buch der Strategie" by Robert Wreschniok is both a visual highlight and a valuable tool for strategy work in companies. Combining stories and visuals makes strategy tangible and understandable, which is decisive for success. Large corporation or mid-sized company: the principles of strategy activation apply everywhere.
Listen to the full episode of our podcast to learn more about the fascinating world of strategy activation.
SHOWNOTESStrategyFrame® ACADEMY
Podcast episode #55 How strategy activation makes execution work
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