About the Process
What makes the Giraffe Strategy Process better than others?
The Giraffe Strategy ProcessSM simplifies strategic planning for all types of organizations. By focusing on the 5 Elements of StrategySM, we use a 2-day workshop to get to the heart of an organization, what it can promise customers and how it will deliver on that promise. The Giraffe Strategy TreeSM elegantly sums up the plan and can even be hung on your office wall for a daily reminder of what the future can hold.
We believe that simple plans get done, while complex plans sit on shelves. Our plans are never academic or overly-complicated. We streamline the strategic planning process and deliver results that are memorable, actionable and achievable.
How long does it take to complete a strategic plan?
Strategic plans are typically completed in 10-12 weeks, depending on the size of the organization. For those with more than $50M in annual sales or with mutliple business units, it typically takes longer.
This includes a 2-day workshop, business case workbook for financials and collaboration to finalize and assemble the final plans. Giraffe will deliver a single strategic plan, typically 20-25 pages long, which includes a Giraffe Strategy Tree for your organization.
Does Giraffe provide support for implementing strategic plans?
Yes! Our expert strategy facilitators can help your organization implement the strategic plans we create together. The plans that we develop include detailed tactics for the first quarter and first year, as well as the framework for years 2 and 3.
We can work with your teams to help them learn effective implementation strategies, including the 12-Points of Implementation to seamlessly transition from development to execution.
Once you master the daily implementation process, we can also meet with your teams annually to review metrics and milestones, as well as update your plan for the coming year. Ideally, organizations will have a rolling 3-year plan at all times. Focus on the present with a keen eye on the future!
Can Giraffe help refresh our plan annually?
Yes! We’d love to meet with your strategy team to update your strategic plan each year. Reviewing and updating is a vital part of a strong strategy. In fact, it’s included in our 12-Points of Implementation.
We have a strategic plan from years ago that just sits on a shelf. Can you help update it?
Yes! We’ll help you turn old, dusty strategies into new, streamlined actionable strategic plan that everyone can understand and use. We won’t just update your old plan, we’ll develop a stronger strategy, in a shorter amount of time, with greater focus and better implementation.
How do I pick my internal team of people?
One of the most important parts of developing a strong strategic plan is the team of people involved. We recommend selecting 10-15 people across your organization, from various customer touch-points and areas of operation. Each member should be a great listener, collaborator and initiator. Learn more about choosing the best team.
In addition to a great team, an expert facilitator is also crucial. He or she will guide the process, encourage communication and ensure you’re on the right track towards a meaningful strategy. That’s where Giraffe excels. Learn about our team.
How many hours are involved for each team member?
This depends on many factors, including their involvement in both the process of strategy development and all of the work that goes into implementation. Plan at least 3-5 full work days for development, which includes the 2-day workshop, development of the business case workbook and finalization of the plan.
Additionally, the implementation phase will be ongoing. There is not a set number of hours for this portion, we encourage each person to to make strategy implementation a part of his or her daily job!
Can I get some insights into the process before we start?
Sure! Our website is full of great information about the Giraffe Strategy Process.
It starts with Simplifying Strategy and our approach to breaking down the core parts of strategy for better focus on what’s really important to your organization.
Then, we help you with Developing Strategy during a workshop with your team. We’ll guide you through creating a Strategy Tree and One Breath Customer Promise.
Finally, the transition from developing to Implementing Strategy is easier with our 12-Points of Implementation and insights to Metrics & Milestones.
If you’d like something to take back to your team, download our Free Strategy Guide to assess your current strategy and start a framework for the future.
What are the deliverables from the Giraffe Strategy Process?
The final deliverable of the Giraffe Strategy ProcessSM is a 20-25 page document that outlines the plan that was developed in the 2-day workshop, subsequent financial analysis, and other research and refinement. The process typically takes 10-12 weeks. Learn more here.
The final document includes:
- A set of simplified objectives
- A list of actionable projects
- Audience assessment
- Strategic requirements
- Financial Proforma
- A Giraffe Strategy Tree for your organization
About Giraffe LLC
What kinds of organizations do you work with?
We work with ALL types of organizations, of ANY size, in EVERY industry. Because we work to simplify strategy, the components of our process are the same regardless of the type or size of the organization.
Click to see how we can help your type of organization:
- Small organizations (less than $50M in annual sales)
- Large organizations (more than $50M in annual sales or with multiple business units)
- Non-profit organizations
- Family-owned businesses
How do I set up a consultation?
Simple email or call us! We’ll do our best to schedule a half-hour to talk about your organization and how we can help you.
Do you have references?
We would love to put you in touch with some of our clients. Please contact us and tell us a little about your organization, along with what you are looking to accomplish. We’ll gladly put you in contact with appropriate companies based on size, industry and other factors.
Do you speak at professional events?
Yes! We are happy to present the Giraffe Strategy Process during professional events. Please contact us with information regarding your event. We will reply as soon as possible.
What are the first steps to get started?
The best way to get started is to contact us. Learn more here.
In addition, download our Free Strategy Guide to assess your current strategy and start building a framework for the future.
How does billing work?
Please schedule a consultation for pricing details. We like to discuss your organization, needs and desired outcomes before talking about pricing.