The three phases of strategy are formulation, implementation, and evaluation.
1. Formulation: This phase involves setting the overall direction and goals of the organization. It includes analyzing the internal and external environment, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis), and developing a strategic plan to achieve the organization's objectives. During this phase, key decisions are made regarding the allocation of resources, target markets, competitive positioning, and strategic initiatives.
2. Implementation: Once the strategy has been formulated, the next phase is implementation. This involves putting the strategic plan into action by allocating resources, assigning responsibilities, and executing specific initiatives. It also involves monitoring progress, making adjustments as needed, and ensuring that the organization is on track to achieve its strategic goals. Effective implementation requires strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to overcome obstacles and resistance to change.
3. Evaluation: The final phase of strategy is evaluation, which involves assessing the effectiveness of the strategy and its impact on the organization's performance. This includes measuring key performance indicators, analyzing results, and identifying areas for improvement. Evaluation helps to determine whether the organization is achieving its strategic objectives, whether the strategy needs to be adjusted, and what lessons can be learned for future strategic planning. Continuous evaluation is essential for ensuring that the organization remains competitive and responsive to changing market conditions.