I thought it would be helpful to start a series on strategy with a working definition of strategy, but found it rather tricky to define because we use it in a number of ways.
Here are three DriverlessCrocodile definitions of strategy, subject to revision as this series continues. I’ll unpack them further in subsequent posts.
Definition of Strategy (as a skill or activity):
Strategy is the dynamic process of making big-picture plans (strategies) with the intention of increasing the chances or speed at which you’ll achieve your major goals.
“Doing” strategy (strategising) produces strategies:
Definition of a strategy (a strategic plan)
A strategy is a big-picture plan intended to increase the chances or speed at which you’ll achieve your major goals by identifying the activities most important to your success (“strategic activities”).
Definition of strategic activity:
A strategic activity is an high-value activity that significantly increases the chances or speed at which you’ll achieve your major goals.
Doing strategy well is strategic, but an activity does not have to be included in a strategic plan to be strategic: it’s possible to do strategic activity by accident.