Your Strategy Needs A Strategy May 2026
Building on the principles from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) , a strategy is only effective if it matches your environment. The "Strategy Palette" framework identifies five archetypal approaches based on three factors: , malleability , and harshness . 1. Classical: "Be Big"
See an opportunity and pursue it single-mindedly to build something that doesn't yet exist. Goal: Create or recreate an industry. 4. Shaping: "Be the Orchestrator" your strategy needs a strategy
Unpredictable environments that you can influence. This often involves high-growth industries with nascent standards. Building on the principles from the Boston Consulting
Rapidly changing, unpredictable environments where industry leaders cannot control the rules (e.g., fashion or tech). Classical: "Be Big" See an opportunity and pursue
Focus on survival first—restructuring, cutting costs, and preserving capital—to clear a path for a future growth strategy. Goal: Free up resources to ensure long-term vitality. Strategic Steps to Proceed
Harsh environments where current strategies have failed and resources are severely restricted.