Using Causal Relationships to Prioritize Actions

Abstract

A simple organizational planning process is presented that offers a systematic approach to strategic planning. This approach is illustrated through an actual example from the telecommunications industry of an organizational vision developed by focusing on the first two levels of the planning process: a mission statement and objectives. In implementing this process, the challenge is to plan and prioritize activities to optimize operational progress while simultaneously taking actions to promote a “learning organization” culture. This article shares a logical exercise that provides a clear picture of the cause/effect relationships inherent among business objectives. Causal objectives drive effectual objectives and consequently offer the opportunity to observe and capture predictive data. Effectual objectives are driven by causal objectives and thus are outcomes that produce measurable historical data. Finally, a simple “hour glass” model is presented that represents the activity flow through the organizational planning structure as it is executed.