Question

“The McKinsey ‘7 S’ framework does not address all the issues that need to be conceptualised when implementing strategy.” (Anon) Critically appraise this statement.   strategic implementation

= Define the terms McKinsey 7 S framework and strategic implementation and show evidence of different appreciations of the terms.

= Link the framework to strategic implementation.

= Discuss the hard and soft issue included in the framework.

= Critically appraise the value of the framework.

= Provide illustrations of different forms of strategic management in action.

Answer 1

McKinsey 7s model is an important tool which is useful for analyzing the organizational design of the firm. This is done by paying attention to the important things internal elements. This includes strategy, structure, systems, shared values, style, staff and skills. They are used effectively and aligned well by the organization for achieving its objectives.

The model was developed in the year 1980s by Tom Peters, Robert Waterman and Julien Philips. They took help of Richard Pascale and Anthony G. Athos. Academics and practitioners use it widely as part of their strategic planning tools and putting focus on human resources rather than the traditional mass production tangible.

The focus is to reveal how the important 7 elements of the company work together. This includes Structure, Strategy, Skills, Staff, Style, Systems, and Shared values, which works together in sync for achievement of company effectiveness.
The focus is on 7 important areas and it is divided into ‘Soft Ss’ and ‘Hard Ss’. The focus is on the interconnectedness of the model.
There is application of the model for various situations and it is useful as an important tool.

The use is for facilitating change. It helps for implementing jew strategy and helps for identifying how every area can change the future. It also helps for facilitating effectiveness of organizations.

The hard elements include strategy, structure and systems. These are easier to manage while the soft areas include foundation of the organization. They can create competitive advantage.

The use of 7 S model is applicable for several situations and this includes alignment perspective. It is useful for improving the company's performance. It is also useful for examining the effects of the changes of the company and aligning the processes and departments. It is useful for determining how useful and effective it is to implement the proposed strategy