Write Out the Strategy

While the Simplified One Page Strategic Plan is an amazing business tool to align the team and track the most important metrics, there’s still an opportunity to write out the strategy in greater detail, especially when things are more complicated or in flux. At Amazon.com, Jeff Bezos likes to start the executive meetings with 30 minutes of reading six-page memos prepared by each of the leaders. The idea is that long form writing captures more detail and nuance as compared to PowerPoint presentations, which often focus on numbers with limited color commentary.

Here are a few thoughts on writing out the strategy:

• Take each of the main ideas from the Simplified One Page Strategic Plan and write a paragraph explaining why it’s important and anything of note
• Consider the audience (e.g. all team members, just executives, etc.) and make sure the strategy is understandable and cohesive
• Review the written strategy with advisors and investors in advance of sharing it with other team members so as to get at least one round of feedback and advice
• Make the most important takeaway from the strategy document abundantly clear and memorable

Thoughtful prose adds more depth and context to the company’s strategy. When a Simplified One Page Strategic Plan isn’t enough, write out the strategy and share it.

What else? What are some thoughts on writing out the strategy?