Alright, imagine you’re leading a team on a cross-country road trip. You’ve got a detailed map, a reliable vehicle, and a motivated crew. But what if, halfway through the journey, you realize you’re heading in the wrong direction? What if the destination you’re aiming for no longer aligns with the purpose of your trip?

That’s where the concept of strategic vision comes into play in Program Recovery. It’s about ensuring that your recovery efforts aren’t just fixing problems, but also steering the project towards a meaningful destination that aligns with the client’s overall goals.

Think of it like this: you’re not just patching up a leaky boat; you’re ensuring it’s sailing towards the right harbour.

Vision:

This is the “why” behind the project. It’s the overarching goal, the ultimate destination you’re trying to reach. In a recovery situation, it’s crucial to revisit this vision and ensure it still makes sense. Has the client’s business changed? Have their priorities shifted? Is this project still relevant to their strategic objectives?

Decision Making:

Now, armed with a clear vision, you need to make informed decisions throughout the recovery process. Every decision, from resource allocation to technical choices, should be guided by the overarching strategic goal. Think of it like choosing the right roads to reach your destination. Each decision should bring you closer to the desired outcome.

Roles and Responsibilities:

To ensure everyone is pulling in the right direction, you need to clearly define roles and responsibilities. Who is responsible for each aspect of the recovery? Who has the authority to make decisions? This clarity ensures accountability and prevents confusion and conflict. Think of it like assigning roles to your road trip crew: who’s navigating, who’s driving, and who’s keeping the snacks stocked.

The Danger of Disconnect:

What happens if you lose sight of the strategic vision? Well, you might end up fixing problems that don’t matter, or worse, achieving a goal that no longer serves the client’s needs. This can lead to project cancellation, reputational damage, and a whole lot of wasted time and effort.

Think of it like reaching a destination only to realize it’s not where you wanted to be. You might have fixed the car and navigated perfectly, but if you’re in the wrong place, it’s all for nothing.

Course Correction:

If you find that the project has veered off course, it’s time for a course correction. This means having an honest conversation with the client and the executive team. Re-evaluate the project’s goals, assess its alignment with the client’s strategic vision, and consider whether it needs to be restructured or even cancelled.

Think of it like calling a team meeting on your road trip. Discuss the situation, reassess your options, and decide whether to adjust your route, change your destination, or even turn back if necessary.

By keeping your eyes on the prize, by aligning every decision and action with the strategic vision, you ensure that your Program Recovery efforts aren’t just about fixing problems, but about achieving meaningful outcomes that deliver lasting value to the client.