Aakash Gupta

7 steps to create a strategy: 𝟭: 𝗢𝗯𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 Without a definition of success, a strategy is meaningless. Strategies are always the response to a challenge. They answer the question: “what is the best way to do X?”. A great format is: Objective = mission + measure 𝟮: 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘀 With the objective set, you’ve defined the question you need to answer. That answer will depend on understanding your users. Business value can only be created when you create so much value for users, that you can “tax” that value and take some for yourself. 𝟯: 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 You now need to figure out how you can offer them an exciting solution that they will value. Whether you’re a startup or established, this should stem from your superpowers. These are the things you can offer, but other companies will find difficult to. 𝟰: 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 Having a clear vision helps you link the day-to-day work of your team to a grander purpose. This should be: • A 1-line vision statement • A product vision board or business canvas • Amazon style PR / FAQs • A series of mockups or storyboard, a “visiontype” 𝟱: 𝗣𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀 Once you’ve set your vision, think through the key themes of work that will comprise your strategy. Devise 2-4 pillars that say where you’ll focus your efforts. They should solve your users’ needs, reinforce your competitive advantage, and deliver your vision. 𝟲: 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 As you pull your pillars together, estimate the impact each can have. This involves: • Developing a narrative for how your pillar will create impact • Expressing that as a driver tree • Estimating the change in driver metrics from the baseline you’ll see 𝟳: 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗽 You’ll need to: • Come up with feature ideas • Prioritize the order you’ll build these • Learn and iterate as you ship features • Keep everyone up to date on progress Ultimately what you’re trying to do is give everyone visibility on what you’re planning to do. -- P.S. For more details: Check out Ed Biden in today's guest post deep-dive (link in comments)