Since then, he has sent me study guides to study and revise my strategic technology plans, and he gives me homework to do the same. The goal is not to simply guess how to implement each of my strategies, but rather to learn how to do so using the resources that are available to me. My goal is to build upon my strengths, to make them work for me and to leverage what I have learned from other people’s strategies. My study guides and homework give me the tools that I need to do just that.
My strategy planner asked me to take a basic technology innovation strategy quiz in order to find out how well I was planningwhat my strengths were, and where I was weak. He also asked me to compare my strategies against those of others who were in the process of implementing similar plans. In other words, he wanted to know my competition and see what I was doing right or wrong so that he could adjust his plans accordingly. And since he understood my personal goals and objectives, he came up with a study guide that helped me to answer the questions and see how I compared with others.
After answering the questions, he sent me the report. What I found was fascinating. Most companies put a fairly insignificant amount of time and money into their innovation planning process. This kind of planning essentially amounted to “scrapping” their strategy and regaining the status quo ante. That was unacceptable!
I didn’t take my technology innovation strategy quiz for me to worry about my competition. I took it for me to identify my weaknesses and make necessary changes. I found that I was planning too broadly and that my competitors were well organized and experienced to provide the essential support for success. I found that I needed to add some specific focus, which led me to expand my strategy. Finally, I identified areas that I needed to improve upon to really get the job done.
My strategy was implemented successfully. But I did have some important help. Some of the other people who work with me on a regular basis to come in when I need some strategic direction on an individual project. Other people who are not as familiar with my company make critical decisions on an ongoing basis because they understand the vision and mission.
One of the best things that happened to me, after I took my technology innovation strategy quiz for me, was learning that I wasn’t alone. There are several hundred thousand people like me in the United States and around the world. Each of us has our own unique strategy. Our ability to communicate that strategy is the key to our success. We need to ensure that we are communicating our strategy each and every day.
In short, what I learned was that everyone needs to take my technology innovation strategy quiz for me. Technology change is inevitable. It is good to know that you are not alone. You have other people who understand the strategic value of your business. The knowledge you gain from other sources will be your best friend in determining the course of action for your business.
