"Most companies are no more than one groundbreaking relationship away from being on more solid ground."

Rationale for the Success Story Paradigm

We are all trying to succeed in "The New Normal." It is about thriving on constant change in an age when new products can become commodities before they are ready to launch. "Groundbreaking strategic initiatives" require a common vision up, down and across the organization - if they are going to work. Telling a success story in advance is a proven way to engage people around a common pursuit.

Our concise story is entitled From Here to There. It is presented initially in a pilot scenario; then eventually modified and distributed wider throughout all levels of an organization. It could be about a new product, or strategy, or program, or process designed to keep the company ahead of the game. It is a realistic story that addresses inevitable roadblocks as well as anticipated short term wins. Overall, it sets a positive tone for bringing a strategic innovation to life faster than in the past.

A second guideline entitled Motivating Change is customized to help managers and strategic partners engage their people in transition and develop there own transition action plan.

Third, a guideline entitled Thriving on Changeis distributed to stimulate discretionary action among people who do the work. Little time will be spent waiting for permission to take positive action.