Effective Operating Models
Structure follows strategy. We redesign operating models so that authority, accountability, and capability align, ensuring each level focuses on the right work at the right time horizon.
What We Do
Structure that follows the strategy, not the org chart
An operating model is not a reporting line diagram. It is the answer to a harder set of questions: what work happens at each level, who holds the authority to decide it, what capability that requires, and how the levels connect without duplicating each other.
We start from the strategy and work backwards. Each layer of the organisation is assigned a distinct time horizon and a distinct class of decision, so executives stop being pulled into operational detail and frontline leaders stop waiting for permission. Accountability is written down, tested against real decisions, and matched to the capability actually present in the roles.
Because the design is built with your leaders through the StratDo® cycle rather than handed to them, it survives contact with the organisation. We stay through the transition, watching where the model bends and correcting it before it breaks.
What good looks like
- Fewer decisions escalated for no reason
- Executives working on the right time horizon
- Duplication between layers removed
- Accountability that is written, known and used
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How the method applies here
We do the heavy lifting on preparation, then work collaboratively with your leaders at every decision gate.
We map how work and decisions flow today, and agree where the model is failing the strategy.
Authority and accountability are assigned role by role, with a single decider for every decision.
Design options are modelled and evaluated against cost, speed, risk and capability.
A transition plan sets out sequencing, resourcing and the coordination needed to land the change.
Post-implementation reviews confirm the model is holding and adjust the parts that are not.
Typical Engagement
What the work covers
Current state mapping
How decisions, work and information actually move through the organisation, including the informal paths that do not appear on any chart.
Decision rights architecture
A DECIDER™ mapping of every material decision class: driver, expert, compliance, input, decider, executors and recommender.
Layer and horizon design
Clear definition of the work, time horizon and authority at each level, removing duplication between executive, functional and frontline layers.
Capability and role alignment
An honest assessment of whether the capability in each role matches the authority the model gives it, and what closes the gap.
Transition and embedding
Sequenced implementation, governance forums, and embedded support through the first cycles of the new model.
Talk to us about effective operating models
Start with a Value Discovery session: no obligation, agenda sent in advance.