Purpose – Most strategies stumble in the implementation phase. This article outlines a market‐validated process, and practical guidelines, for optimizing implementation. The primary audience is mid‐level and senior executives charged with the responsibility for implementing strategy. Design/methodology/approach – This implementation process focuses on the critical timeframe immediately following formal strategy selection, when broad objectives need to be translated into specific actions, schedules, budgets, and metrics. The approach is to capture the key decisions in an accessible, common format, and to deploy this tool consistently throughout the organization to monitor and guide implementation. Dozens of firms across a wide array of industries have used the methodology, which derives from two decades of senior operating and strategy consulting experience. Findings – Strategy development receives significant attention and resources, but implementation is often neglected, with disastrous consequences. Using a straightforward approach, format, and process, managers can bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality; they can succeed in accomplishing what they set out to do, and think and act strategically. Research limitations/implications – The approach and logic described are universal, but the actual format may need to be adapted to fit the planning cycle and technology of each firm, and refined over time to dovetail with the firm's budgetary process. Practical implications – Strategy programs need to be expanded to focus on the implementation process. More attention should be given to breaking down lofty statements into practical, actionable, measurable activities. The language and methods used to implement need to be simplified, and consistently deployed. Success in implementation is critical to validating the investment in strategy in the first place. Originality/value – The rational, practical approach described offers middle and senior managers a toolkit for bringing strategies to life – for bridging the gap between aspirations and real performance. It outlines a practical process, providing hands‐on guidelines for optimizing performance, and galvanizing the management team.
