Strategic Planning
Military Precision in Business Operations
In my early days as a new lieutenant, I quickly learned that leadership in the Army isn't just about giving orders. It's about becoming a master in various fields – logistics, personnel management, data analytics, you name it. In many ways, a lieutenant is akin to a small business owner, holding the reins of the success or failure of their unit, be it a platoon, company, or battalion.
One valuable tool I learned is the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP), a structured framework that I've adapted into my business strategy approach. Think of MDMP as a strategic planner's Swiss Army knife – versatile, precise, and incredibly effective.
The MDMP might sound intimidating, but let's break it down with a bit of humor:
Receive the Mission: Picture this as being handed a "surprise" project, except maps and a heavy dose of seriousness accompany it.
Mission Analysis: It's like being a detective, unraveling a web of complex clues and trying to piece together the big picture without getting lost in minutiae.
Course of Action Development: Imagine a brainstorming session where every idea is critical in a high-stakes puzzle.
COA Analysis (War Game): It's a game of strategic chess, where each move is calculated to outmaneuver hypothetical adversaries.
COA Comparison: This is where you play judge, determining which plan has the best shot at success.
COA Approval: Think of this as pitching your brainchild to the higher-ups, hoping for a thumbs-up.
Orders Production: This is where you meticulously document your strategy, akin to writing a recipe for success.
Transition: It’s rally time – getting your team on board and ready to execute the plan with every detail accounted for.
But there's more to leadership than just strategic planning. As I transitioned through my military and corporate career, I realized the importance of emotional intelligence, empowerment, and fostering a growth mindset. I honed these skills in the Army, developing people as much as executing plans.
In my corporate roles, I've adapted these military strategies to navigate corporate bureaucracies and make a meaningful impact. Here's where my Zeal Strategic Framework for Business Strategy comes into play:
Zero in on Objectives (Z)
Define Clear Goals: What does success look like for your business? Start there.
Align with Vision: Ensure these goals resonate with your company's vision and values.
Evaluate the Landscape (E)
Market Analysis: Understand the terrain – your market, competitors, and customers.
Internal Capabilities: Take stock of your strengths, weaknesses, and resources.
Action Plan (A)
Strategies and Tactics: Develop specific actions to reach your goals, from marketing initiatives to operational improvements.
Resource Allocation: Determine the best use of your resources for maximum impact.
Lead and Adapt (L)
Execution and Leadership: Implement your plan with decisive leadership and motivate your team.
Monitor and Adapt: Stay agile, regularly review your progress, and be ready to pivot as needed.
Leadership, whether in the military or corporate world, is about connecting the dots – aligning organizational goals with individual aspirations. In my tenure, from commanding troops to leading strategic initiatives in corporate America, I've always focused on empowering individuals and teams. Aside from my job as a VP Strategic Lead at a global bank, I led a team of dedicated volunteers across various domains, fondly known as the A-Team. Their enthusiasm and commitment were instrumental in our success. I reference this because, as a leader. I know my environment. I can see the Porsche 911 Turbo in the garage, dying to get out, and I’ve been blessed with being able to develop others naturally, lifting all tides. I have a track record of getting things done and helping others with the same energy. A gift.
In the end, it's about blending strategic precision with human insight. That's the secret sauce to effective leadership and sustainable business growth. Stay tuned for more insights as we continue this journey together!
Evan Howard, Founder, CEO