Policy development determines how strategy is translated into clear operational objectives and targeted breakthrough projects. It is about strengthening the existing organisation.
The True North has been determined, but how do you bridge the gap between today and the desired situation? Symbol helps organisations bridge the gap between current and desired performance.
Every translation starts with complete clarity regarding the goal. What do we specifically want to achieve, when are we successful, and how do we make that measurable? We formulate the strategic objective unambiguously and translate it into concrete, measurable, and time-bound KPIs. In doing so, we ensure alignment within management regarding definitions, ambition, and desired results.
Result: A single shared and sharply defined vision of success.
To achieve progress, we investigate why objectives are not being met today. We systematically identify the main bottlenecks and focus on underlying causes rather than symptoms. This includes organisational bottlenecks, process issues, capacity or competency shortages, and a lack of direction or priority.
Result: Clear insight into the critical factors blocking progress.
Based on the main barriers, we determine which breakthroughs are needed to make a real impact this year. For each critical roadblock, we formulate a clearly defined project with a distinct scope, concrete objectives, and explicit ownership. We select a limited number of initiatives with maximum contribution to strategic KPIs.
Result: Concrete breakthrough projects with a direct impact on strategic goals.
Not everything can be done at once, so sharp choices are necessary. We prioritise projects based on impact, urgency, feasibility, and available capacity. In doing so, we make explicit what will and will not be addressed to prevent fragmentation. This creates focus on the initiatives that truly make a difference.
Result: A focused and executable portfolio of strategic projects.
Policy Development requires courageous choices and explicit prioritisation. Symbol facilitates this process as an independent partner, helping to make sharp choices without organisational politics. We work in interactive workshops with the management team, rather than producing reports that end up in a drawer.
Through catchball sessions, we ensure that goals are ambitious yet achievable, and that those involved feel a sense of ownership. In the subsequent Policy Deployment phase, we guide the actual implementation of breakthrough projects.
Would you like to know how Policy Development translates your strategy into a focused annual plan? Schedule a non-binding consultation.
What is Policy Development?
Policy Development is the process by which strategic ambitions (True North) are translated into concrete annual goals, KPIs, and a limited number of breakthrough projects. It connects long-term strategy with daily execution.
What is the difference between strategy and policy development?
Strategy determines where the organisation wants to be in 3–5 years. Policy Development determines what we will specifically do this year to achieve that ambition. Strategy works ‘ON’ the organisation, policy development works ‘IN’ the organisation.
How many strategic priorities should you have per year?
In practice, it appears that you should focus on 5 to a maximum of 10 strategic breakthrough projects per year. Too many initiatives lead to fragmentation and reduced execution power.
How do you ensure alignment between departments?
By defining shared KPIs and connecting strategic goals horizontally. Tools such as an X-matrix or strategy deployment help to align goals, projects, and responsibilities.
What is a breakthrough project?
A breakthrough project is a clearly defined initiative that makes a significant contribution to a strategic KPI. It has a clear scope, measurable objective, and explicit ownership.