Causal mapping for strategy execution: Pitfalls and applications

MacLennan, A and Markides, C (2021) Causal mapping for strategy execution: Pitfalls and applications. California Management Review, 63 (4). pp. 89-122. ISSN 0008-1256

Abstract

Organizations can attempt to improve strategy implementation by developing strategy execution maps, which aim to translate strategic objectives into specific activities and provide sufficient clarity to inform employees’ decisions and actions. However, managers often encounter pitfalls, both in framing the process and in developing maps. This article suggests how to overcome these pitfalls, describes several applications of causal maps to further enhance strategy execution, and illustrates strategy execution maps for organizations with distinctive strategies.