Scott Snyder, Ph. D., CEO of Decision Strategies International, discusses the importance of an adaptable strategy that is able to adapt and respond to changing assumptions in an organization’s strategic environment.

He outlines the three pillars of an adaptive strategic planning process.

Pillar 1: Using multiple frames of reference. Recognize the company view and do not get stuck in one world view. Scenario planning is a good technique to keep a strategic planning process from focusing too narrowly on a preferred worldview.

Pillar 2: Develop a flexible strategy. Use strategic options to focus company resources on the appropriate priorities given the uncertainty in its environment.

Pillar 3: Monitor the environment. Be vigilent for signs of shifts in the environment. Establish a system for monitoring trends and uncertainties and use this intelligence to update the strategic plan, future scenarios, and strategic options.