Strategic analysis: approaching continuous improvement proactively

Review of Business, Fall, 2008 by Lisa B. Ncube, Mara H. Wasburn

The Strategic Analysis Model is a proactive continuous improvement model that combines elements of needs assessment with Appreciative Inquiry. By combining needs assessment models and Appreciative Inquiry, the Strategic Analysis model takes advantage of the positive aspects of each model and redresses shortcomings of each. In so doing, the organization can become more anticipatory, resulting in a more proactive approach to continuous process improvement. Continuous improvement entails constant enhancement of customer satisfaction, facilitated by increasing organizational efficiency and effectiveness. Strategic Analysis is a diagnostic tool that identifies those aspects of organizational behavior most in need of continuous improvement (22).

In uncertain environments, Strategic Analysis is able to provide organizations with a clear framework without getting lost in the chaos of change. This balancing act of utilizing past experiences, solving immediate problems, and preparing for the future by detecting patterns or threats requires the ability to manage strategic change (19). Leaders committed to considering a wide variety of alternative strategies for change, including those that are unconventional, have improved their chances for success (15), (19). It is therefore important to recognize that the incorporation of new technology is just a single component of an overall strategy in addressing continuous improvement.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Appreciative Evaluation

Every organization requires a valid and reliable means of evaluating the extent to which it is meeting its specified goals (27). The evaluation must be appropriate to the context in which it is conducted. Because its focus is on positive organizational outcomes. Appreciative Evaluation was selected as the most appropriate tool for evaluating the Strategic Analysis process (24) and was included at each phase.

Closely related to Appreciative Inquiry, described earlier. Appreciative Evaluation identifies what is best about an organization (21). It is a tool used to discover what animates the organization and what it needs more of. An evaluation approach that focuses on what is working, identifies a point of departure from which to launch efforts at organizational improvement and to move the organization forward in a positive direction. The goal is to leverage the organization's strengths in order to realize the goals envisioned by its participants and stakeholders (20).

During each phase of the process, questions designed to uncover what is best in the current system are developed. Answers to these questions provide an understanding of the role each factor plays in giving life to the organization. Each question is stated affirmatively (7). Appreciative Evaluation regards those who benefit as key actors in the process. They are not seen as subjects or objects of study, but rather as participants who are involved in understanding the process, assessing what was successful and proposing solutions to overcome obstacles and challenges (13). Evaluation, then, is seen not as an activity external to the process but rather as an integral component of that process.