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10 strategies and tactics for Design

What is Design strategy?

Every great achievement starts with a well-thought-out plan. It can be the launch of a new product, expanding into new markets, or just trying to increase efficiency. You'll need a delicate combination of strategies and tactics to ensure that the journey is smooth and effective.

Crafting the perfect Design strategy can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're juggling daily responsibilities. That's why we've put together a collection of examples to spark your inspiration.

Copy these examples into your preferred app, or you can also use Tability to keep yourself accountable.

How to write your own Design strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

Design strategy examples

You'll find below a list of Design tactics. We also included action items for each template to make it more practical and useful.

Strategies and tactics for designing a Brand Management Course

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Create a detailed course syllabus

    • Outline weekly topics and objectives for the 6-month, 2 sessions per week course
    • Outline weekly topics and objectives for the 4-month, 3 sessions per week course
    • Include a mixture of lectures, guest speaker sessions, and interactive workshops
    • Recommend readings and resources for each session
    • Clearly define the objectives and key takeaways for each week
    • Include a review session every 4 weeks for recapitulation and feedback
    • Integrate specialist modules within each phase of the course
    • Ensure the syllabus emphasises practical application with industry case studies
    • List assessments and projects accompanying each phase to reinforce learning
    • Align syllabus content with industry trends and practices

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop module descriptions and learning outcomes

    • Draft a brief overview of each phase in the course description
    • Create detailed module descriptions for the design, copywriting, and digital integration modules
    • Outline specific learning outcomes for each module to guide teaching
    • Highlight key marketing and branding concepts to be covered in Phase 1
    • Define advanced brand management skills and knowledge for Phase 2
    • Articulate the role and impact of design in branding for Design Module
    • Explain the role of language and storytelling in branding for Copywriting Module
    • Clarify the integration of digital strategies within the broader branding context
    • Identify hands-on projects or simulations for practical learning
    • Describe how specialist instructors' expertise enhances the overall curriculum

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Plan assessment ideas and integration notes

    • Design quizzes and short tests for foundational marketing concepts
    • Create case study analysis sessions focusing on real-world brands
    • Incorporate a final project where students develop a brand strategy
    • Introduce group work to foster collaboration, simulating team branding efforts
    • Assign periodic reflective tasks where students evaluate brand strategies
    • Include practical assignments for each specialist module
    • Design rubrics for each assessment ensuring consistent evaluation
    • Provide teacher integration notes to smoothly incorporate specialist modules
    • Propose collaborative projects across different modules for deeper learning
    • Recommend periodic feedback sessions with instructors to track progress
brand-managementsyllabus-designbrand-managermarketing-professionalcurriculum-development-teambranding-strategy-team
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Strategies and tactics for developing a Winning Proposal for Strategic Communications RFP

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Showcase Experience and Capability

    • Highlight the agency's track record in supporting high-profile public figures and governmental leaders with case studies
    • Demonstrate established media relations infrastructure with examples of past media engagements and secured top-tier coverage
    • Provide examples of integrated media strategies successfully executed, including narrative development and public storytelling
    • Include testimonials or references from past clients in similar sectors to validate expertise
    • Document the agency's capacity for real-time platform optimization and audience analysis accuracy
    • Outline previous successful crisis communication scenarios managed by the agency
    • Showcase capabilities in high-quality content creation with samples of speeches, op-eds, and multimedia storytelling
    • Detail experience in stakeholder engagement and media relations across local, regional, and international spectrums
    • Provide a portfolio of award-winning or nationally-recognized campaigns with measurable outcomes
    • Explain capacity for continuous advisory services with strategic foresight for enhancing the Chancellor’s executive presence

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Detail a Comprehensive Execution Plan

    • Develop a strategic communications plan with clear objectives, audience targeting, and timelines
    • Create an integrated messaging framework aligned with the Chancellor’s vision and values
    • Design a dynamic social media strategy with platform-specific tactics and engagement plans
    • Outline a tailored media relations strategy for local, regional, and global outlets
    • Prepare a crisis communications plan with protocols, key messages, and rapid response templates
    • Propose a solution for high-impact campaign development and execution highlighting innovation
    • Detail a method for conducting regular perception audits and stakeholder mapping
    • Produce a comprehensive plan for executive presence enhancement at key events
    • Include a digital and media benchmarking analysis against global best practices
    • Describe the process for periodic review meetings to align execution with changing priorities

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Deliver Insight-Driven Recommendations

    • Provide insights from benchmarking executive communications practices globally
    • Present a detailed GAP analysis with opportunities for narrative enhancement
    • Offer data-driven recommendations for content omnipresence across platforms
    • Suggest refinements in digital engagement tactics using performance monitoring tools
    • Propose innovative ideas for visual content to boost narrative impact
    • Recommend high-profile media placements and thought leadership contributions
    • Schedule regular updates and brainstorming sessions with the HCT’s team
    • Advise on audience segmentation backed by analytics for targeted communication
    • Plan strategic partnerships with influencers to extend digital reach
    • Prepare presentations on potential narrative-shaping campaigns for UAE's global positioning
strategic-communicationsproposal-developmentcommunications-strategistmedia-relations-specialistcontent-creation-teamcrisis-management-team
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Strategies and tactics for improving User-Centric Design and Branding Consistency

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement User-Centric Design Testing Processes

    • Conduct usability testing sessions with 200 users across Edubanc, EdPay, PayFlex, and Tuition Invoicing
    • Collaborate with operations, marketing, and product teams to identify and prioritise the top 5 design issues
    • Organise 2 focus group testing sessions for Edubanc and PayFlex to gather initial usability feedback
    • Design and integrate a systematic feedback collection process into Edubanc and EdPay product workflows
    • Establish a timeline for regular usability testing to ensure ongoing user feedback integration
    • Analyse usability testing data to highlight recurring themes and areas needing improvement
    • Schedule bi-weekly cross-functional meetings to address feedback findings with relevant stakeholders
    • Deploy changes based on identified design issues and re-test to confirm resolution
    • Create follow-up surveys post-testing to gauge user satisfaction and experience
    • Document all findings and improvements as case studies to inform future design processes

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop and Enforce Unified Branding Guidelines

    • Create a comprehensive branding guide that covers all visual and messaging aspects for all products
    • Apply the branding guide to five key product interfaces by conducting iterative design updates
    • Conduct training sessions for the entire design team to familiarise them with the new branding guidelines
    • Develop a checklist for designers to ensure adherence to branding guidelines in every project
    • Set up a review board tasked with overseeing branding consistency across ongoing projects
    • Create template assets that comply with the branding guide for easy reuse
    • Involve the marketing team in the branding guide creation to align brand messaging with design
    • Track the impact of updated interfaces on user experience and brand perception through feedback channels
    • Host quarterly workshops to revise and update the branding guidelines as necessary
    • Gather cross-team feedback to ensure the branding guide remains practical and user-focused

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise Design Processes for Improved Efficiency

    • Map current design processes to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
    • Set specific time reduction goals for design turnaround, such as reducing feature design completion from 20 to 17 days
    • Establish a shared asset library for design components to boost reuse and efficiency
    • Organise monthly cross-functional reviews to ensure operations, marketing, and growth feedback are integrated
    • Implement A/B testing protocols on onboarding flow designs to validate potential efficiency gains
    • Incorporate design tools and analytics for tracking asset utilisation and workflow progress
    • Run training sessions on advanced design tools and processes to enhance team capabilities
    • Measure and report on efficiency metrics, presenting these findings in team meetings
    • Iterate and refine processes continually based on feedback and performance data
    • Create a culture of continuous improvement through regular feedback sessions and design retrospectives
user-centric-designbranding-consistencydesignerbranding-manageroperationsmarketing
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Strategies and tactics for developing a Strategic Framework for University Growth

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance Campus Infrastructure and Facilities

    • Upgrade and decorate lecture rooms and seminar spaces
    • Expand and upgrade medical, engineering, and IT laboratories
    • Develop a new library expansion project
    • Establish a second medical laboratory
    • Install a robust IT structure with green and sustainable technology
    • Open a new campus branch in a strategic location
    • Replace and upgrade university's transport vehicles
    • Collaborate with public and private sectors for infrastructure investment
    • Implement eco-friendly practices in all campus operations
    • Develop and enforce strong health and safety guidelines

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Foster Academic Growth and Student Engagement

    • Revise and enhance the academic curriculum regularly
    • Introduce student empowerment and development programs
    • Integrate co-curricular activities to promote holistic learning
    • Provide mentoring and tutoring systems for student support
    • Expand transformational education experiences with global outreach
    • Implement a comprehensive enrolment management plan
    • Offer competitive scholarships and financial aid
    • Encourage community engagement through volunteering and projects
    • Foster an inclusive and collaborative educational environment
    • Implement quality recruitment processes for diverse and skilled faculty

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Strengthen Research and Resource Management

    • Prioritise socio-economic research in university's agenda
    • Create partnerships with local and international organisations
    • Develop a strategic financial plan for sustainable funding
    • Enhance the university's internal and external communication
    • Introduce a robust monitoring and assessment framework
    • Cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
    • Strengthen the support for research activities and infrastructure
    • Develop a resource utilisation policy for efficiency
    • Organise seminars and workshops to showcase research
    • Provide training for staff on resource management and efficiencies
infrastructure-improvementacademic-excellenceuniversity-administratorcurriculum-developerinfrastructure-developmentacademic-affairs
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Strategies and tactics for designing a Sustainable Interior Space

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Incorporate Sustainable Materials

    • Use eco-certified furniture such as FSC and Cradle to Cradle certified products
    • Select materials that are low-impact and long-lasting to ensure durability
    • Source materials and products locally to reduce transportation emissions
    • Opt for designs that allow for flexibility and future adaptability
    • Choose rapidly renewable materials like bamboo and cork
    • Incorporate recycled or reclaimed materials in the design
    • Avoid materials that emit high levels of VOCs or other harmful toxins
    • Use modular designs to minimise waste and support reuse
    • Implement a circular design approach that considers disassembly and reuse
    • Incorporate low-flow water fixtures and appliances to enhance water efficiency

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance Energy and Water Usage

    • Install energy-saving LED lighting with motion and occupancy sensors
    • Use only Energy Star-rated appliances to ensure efficiency
    • Maximise natural daylight by using reflective surfaces and smart layout designs
    • Utilise programmable thermostats to manage energy use effectively
    • Install dual-flush toilets and greywater systems for water conservation
    • Select drought-resistant indoor plants to reduce water consumption
    • Conduct audits on site to measure and improve water and energy efficiency
    • Incorporate smart technology for continuous monitoring of sustainability metrics
    • Integrate energy and resource modeling tools to assess efficiency
    • Consider energy-zoning to optimise heating and cooling in different areas

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise Indoor Environmental Quality

    • Use non-toxic paints, adhesives, and sealants to improve air quality
    • Ensure proper ventilation and air filtration systems are installed
    • Incorporate elements of biophilic design to bring natural elements indoors
    • Design spaces for acoustic comfort using sound-absorbing panels
    • Provide easy access for recycling and composting to manage waste
    • Use modular flooring and fixtures to allow for reusability
    • Minimise packaging waste through tailored supplier agreements
    • Conduct pre- and post-construction waste audits for accountability
    • Design outdoor areas with permeable surfaces to reduce environmental runoff
    • Incorporate green roofs and walls to support the building’s ecological footprint
sustainable-materialsenergy-efficiencyinterior-designersustainability-specialistenvironmental-audit-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for developing Market Strategies for Belayab Motors

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance Product Offerings and Market Penetration

    • Expand product line with a focus on electric vehicles to align with global sustainability trends
    • Conduct comprehensive market research to identify new customer segments and unmet needs
    • Increase brand visibility through strategic partnerships with financial institutions for consumer financing
    • Develop a competitive pricing strategy to increase market share against imported used vehicles
    • Launch promotional campaigns highlighting the benefits and features of new electric vehicle models
    • Enhance after-sales services through extended warranties and regular maintenance packages
    • Establish a network of service centres to support product reach and customer convenience
    • Invest in CRM systems to improve customer relationship management and retention strategies
    • Implement training programs for sales staff to enhance product knowledge and customer engagement
    • Utilise digital marketing platforms to reach a broader audience and strengthen online presence

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Strengthen Supply Chain and Resource Management

    • Identify and collaborate with strategic local and international suppliers to ensure competitive pricing
    • Enhance logistics and distribution networks to improve product availability across key regions
    • Diversify supplier base to reduce dependency and negotiate better terms
    • Optimise inventory management to reduce waste and improve turnover rates
    • Exploit economies of scale by negotiating bulk purchase agreements with key suppliers
    • Streamline internal processes with ERP systems for effective resource allocation and financial management
    • Implement cost control measures to maximise profitability and support investment in innovation
    • Conduct regular supply chain audits to identify and rectify inefficiencies
    • Work with government agencies to benefit from policy supports and incentives
    • Assess and augment resource capabilities, especially with regards to human capital and technical expertise

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enhance Branding and Customer Engagement

    • Implement a comprehensive branding strategy that highlights quality, affordability, and innovation
    • Strengthen corporate social responsibility initiatives to promote community engagement and brand loyalty
    • Develop and launch a customer feedback system to drive continuous improvement based on client insights
    • Invest in digital marketing efforts, including user-friendly website enhancements and social media campaigns
    • Establish strategic partnerships with educational institutions for brand advocacy and talent acquisition
    • Host informational workshops and webinars to educate potential buyers about electric vehicles
    • Craft strategic PR campaigns to address misconceptions about Chinese brands and enhance public perception
    • Offer loyalty programs and incentives for repeat customers to reinforce brand preference
    • Regularly measure brand awareness and adjust strategies based on consumer sentiment and feedback
    • Collaborate with influencers and industry voices to amplify brand reach and credibility
market-penetrationsupply-chainmarketing-managersupply-chain-analystbranding-teamproduct-development-team
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Strategies and tactics for creating a Comprehensive Monthly Digital Marketing Strategy

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Generate engaging video content

    • Create a 'Before vs. After' room transformation with a humorous twist, recommended length: 30 seconds, post on Wednesdays at 3 PM
    • Develop a ‘Design Challenge’ video where different tools are mistakenly used in place of the design tools, run a poll, post on Sundays at 11 AM
    • Post a ‘Day in the Life of a Pillow’ video, follow the pillow through its adventures, suggested length: 15 seconds, post on Fridays at 6 PM
    • Film a mini-series ‘Guess the Design Style’ with interactive questions, each video should be 20 seconds, post on Mondays at 12 PM
    • Host a ‘Interior Designer’s Unboxing’ of bizarre design items, each episode 25 seconds long, post on Saturdays at 5 PM
    • Share a humorous ‘Design Fails’ compilation with a call to action for followers to share their own, 10 seconds each, post on Tuesdays at 2 PM
    • Launch a video series ‘Designer Secrets Revealed’ featuring common misconceptions, recommended length: 20 seconds, post on Thursdays at 4 PM
    • Create a ‘Furniture That Can Dance’ – use stop motion to show furniture ‘dancing’, 15 seconds long, post on Fridays at 7 PM
    • Record a ‘Interior Design Myth Busting’ video using engaging visuals, 30 seconds, post on Mondays at 1 PM
    • Develop a ‘Designer’s Choice – Trends to Try’ video with dynamic transitions, 25 seconds, post on Wednesdays at 6 PM

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop static post content

    • Design a post ‘Spot the Difference’ with two images of a room setup, include a humorous caption, hashtags: #InteriorDesignFun, #SpotTheDifference, post on Sundays at 10 AM
    • Create a vibrant infographic on ‘The Evolution of Sofas in Cinema History’, use a catchy headline, hashtags: #CinemaSofas, #InteriorTrends, engage with questions about favourite era, post on Mondays at 3 PM
    • Share a ‘Meme Day’ post featuring funny interior design memes with captions, encourage sharing memes in comments, hashtags: #InteriorMemes, #DesignLaughs, post on Wednesdays at 1 PM
    • Post a ‘Interior Design Quiz’ with visually appealing graphics, ask followers’ opinions through polls, hashtags: #DesignQuiz, #GuessThatStyle, post on Fridays at 9 AM

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Outline overall strategy and engagement

    • Set KPIs including a 10% increase in engagement rate, a 5% growth in followers, and an increase in shares by 15%
    • Implement monthly Q&A sessions via Instagram Live to foster community interaction
    • Encourage user-generated content by initiating a monthly design challenge with a unique hashtag
    • Utilise Instagram Stories to feature behind-the-scenes content and design tips three times a week
    • Use Instagram Reels for quick DIY tips and tricks, enhancing visibility of the account
    • Collaborate with micro-influencers in the interior design space to broaden audience reach
    • Host a monthly giveaway with a partner brand, incentivising engagement with attractive prizes
    • Respond to comments promptly to encourage conversations and build relations with followers
    • Regularly share followers’ design success stories on stories or posts to highlight community involvement
    • Monitor the effectiveness of content using Instagram Insights and adjust strategy based on data analysis
engagementcreativitysocial-media-managercontent-creatormarketing-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for preparing for Eswatini’s Participation in Belgrade Expo 2027

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enrich the Pavilion Experience

    • Design an immersive entrance with vibrant colours and music reflective of Eswatini culture
    • Create a virtual reality experience to explore Eswatini's landscapes and heritage
    • Develop interactive zones for traditional games and musical instruments
    • Organise live performances featuring Swati musicians and dancers blending heritage with modern creativity
    • Showcase a business and innovation area with eco-friendly products and success stories
    • Incorporate storytelling spaces to engage visitors in cultural narratives
    • Highlight textures and materials from Swati heritage in the pavilion's design
    • Conduct interactive workshops for visitors to engage with artisans and crafts
    • Integrate the theme of 'Play Together' with participatory dance and collective activities
    • Conclude with a cultural market offering crafts, marula-based products, and organic foods

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Foster Audience Engagement

    • Develop play areas for children and youth with traditional games and VR simulations
    • Engage cultural enthusiasts through live performances and dance workshops
    • Host seminars and networking spaces for business stakeholders
    • Create an immersive route for the general public through Eswatini’s landscape and cultural zones
    • Launch a digital campaign #NkweEswatiniExpo2027 to connect global audiences
    • Involve Swati students in Serbia as cultural and educational ambassadors
    • Organise interactive workshops guided by diaspora students
    • Provide guided tours for business and investment stakeholders
    • Share testimonials from artists and athletes through the digital platforms
    • Regularly update live pavilion experiences on social media

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Showcase Cultural and Economic Innovations

    • Integrate traditional games like umlabalaba into educational displays
    • Highlight women-led cooperatives producing marula-based products
    • Present sustainable craftsmanship as part of a circular economy approach
    • Feature the MTN Bushfire Festival as a model of cultural diplomacy
    • Include rising Swati athletes and their stories as part of sport exhibits
    • Organise dialogue sessions with craft cooperatives and cultural leaders
    • Develop a space for interactive art demonstrations from Swati visual artists
    • Highlight craft industries that transform recycled materials into designs
    • Showcase innovation through the blending of heritage and modern tech in exhibits
    • Promote investment opportunities through practical demonstrations and showcases
cultural-identityinnovationcultural-ambassadorevent-coordinatormarketing-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for providing eco-friendly and unique fashion designs

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Partner with sustainable material suppliers

    • Research suppliers who specialise in eco-friendly materials
    • Reach out and initiate conversations with potential suppliers
    • Negotiate terms for cost-effective bulk purchases
    • Request samples to assess quality and sustainability
    • Build long-term relationships with selected suppliers
    • Incorporate feedback from design teams on material usability
    • Ensure eco-certifications are up-to-date and verified
    • Set up a logistics plan for continuous material supply
    • Evaluate supplier performance periodically
    • Adapt material choices based on market trends and feedback

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Engage with the fashion community

    • Identify key fashion influencers and icons
    • Develop a compelling pitch highlighting the brand's mission
    • Invite influencers to exclusive brand launch events
    • Collaborate on co-branded designs with selected influencers
    • Leverage social media for interactive engagement
    • Provide VIPs with exclusive early access to collections
    • Curate personalised gifts for long-term partnerships
    • Feature influencers' testimonials prominently on platforms
    • Host regular fashion workshops to share eco-design insights
    • Encourage community feedback to continuously improve designs

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Incorporate innovative graphic design techniques

    • Stay abreast of current trends in graphic design
    • Invest in modern design software and tools
    • Hire skilled designers with a passion for sustainability
    • Encourage team brainstorming sessions for design ideas
    • Offer designers regular training on latest techniques
    • Explore and integrate digital fashion concepts
    • Test new design concepts through trial runs
    • Create limited edition collections to test new ideas
    • Seek customer feedback on design preferences
    • Continuously refine designs based on customer input
eco-friendly-materialsfashion-communitydesignersfashion-influencerssupply-chain-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for enhancing mentoring skills to help grow junior designers

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop a structured mentoring plan

    • Identify the key skills and knowledge areas junior designers need to develop
    • Create a timeline for mentoring activities and check-ins
    • Design a mix of formal and informal mentoring interactions
    • Set clear and achievable goals for the mentees
    • Develop relevant learning resources and materials
    • Schedule regular feedback sessions to discuss progress
    • Incorporate real-world projects to provide hands-on experience
    • Organise group mentoring sessions and peer learning opportunities
    • Adjust the mentoring plan based on feedback and progress
    • Monitor the long-term career growth of mentees

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Foster an open and supportive environment

    • Promote open communication and active listening
    • Encourage mentees to share their challenges and successes
    • Build a culture of trust and mutual respect
    • Provide constructive and actionable feedback
    • Offer encouragement and celebrate achievements
    • Share personal experiences and lessons learned
    • Be approachable and show empathy
    • Encourage mentees to take on new responsibilities
    • Create opportunities for mentees to ask questions and seek advice
    • Organise team-building activities to strengthen relationships

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Stay updated with industry trends and best practices

    • Regularly attend industry conferences and workshops
    • Subscribe to relevant design blogs, podcasts, and newsletters
    • Join professional design communities and forums
    • Participate in online courses and webinars
    • Read books on design and mentoring best practices
    • Network with other experienced mentors for insights and advice
    • Encourage mentees to share new trends they discover
    • Implement and adapt new techniques in mentoring sessions
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of new strategies and adjust accordingly
    • Share industry updates and insights with mentees
mentoringjunior-designersmentormenteedesign-teamlearning-&-development-team
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How to track your Design strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Don't fall into the set-and-forget trap. It is important to adopt a weekly check-in process to keep your strategy agile – otherwise this is nothing more than a reporting exercise.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

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