PROJECT STRATEGY DEFINITION
The Level 4 Strategy is a strategic plan that defines the direction of the project, and the strategic goals that meet each of the project objectives (defined in the Project Scope). This document is essential as it forms the basis of clarifying each party's contribution towards successful project delivery. The purpose of this is to allow for collaborators to do the following:
- Contemplation space allows for ideas to generate. The form gives ideas a reference to leverage from and an alignment to the goal. Reflection also improves and strengthens the initial concept allowing parties to introduce additional skills and talents to expand the original scope.
- Configure a clear message. Clarity of communications is critical for any innovative new concept, the Project Strategy provides a single reference that is adaptive by parties to result in a consensus of the project's purpose and vision. As well as key information that indicates how a successful outcome is measured by each party.
- An initial feasibility assessment. The document records all factors necessary for achieving success. To this end, include all areas of interest, such as financial goals, operational methods, customer relations and organisation resources.
- A plan of expected events that are required to take place. The strategy outlines the necessary steps that are needed to be performed within a timeframe, assigning these tasks to the responsible parties within the collaborator project group.
Step 1
If you haven't already done so within your Project Scope, for each of your project objectives, summarise your intended outcome in 10 words or less. Then identify and note three strategic goals which explain how the project will deliver its L5 positive impact, L4 improvement and L3 functioning aspects. Ensure these are SMART by identifying how they will be measured within a specified time frame. These are your project's strategic goals.
If you are finding it challenging, you can perform the Power5 Perceptual Position Exercise.
L5 Project Objective (from Step 2 of your Project Scope):
L4 Project Objective (from Step 2 of your Project Scope):
L3 Project Objective (from Step 2 of your Project Scope):
L2 Project Objective (from Step 2 of your Project Scope):
L1 Project Objective (from Step 2 of your Project Scope):
Step 2
In order to execute your strategy to the highest quality, you will need a team. Reviewing your strategic goals, identify where you will require specialised expertise and make a note of these areas. These will be your Project Leaders.
E.g. Project Leader, Marketing
E.g. Project Leader, Programme Development
Step 3
Now identify the areas where you need strong operational support from collaborators that have experience in the required area and make a note. These are your Managers.
E.g. Manager, Client Relationship
E.g. Manger, Production
Step 4
Based on the project size and expected revenue, identify how many Team Members you will initially need to support the team. Team Members do not need to have specialised expertise nor experience. They will be interested in the project delivery and participation offers them an opportunity to learn as they support the overall team.
Step 5
Finally, identify how many additional Individual places are available on the project. Individuals participate without prior experience or knowledge. The project can be their first exposure to a new industry or function.