Strategy implementation often is called the “action stage” of strategic management.
Implementing strategy means mobilizing employees and managers to put formulated strategies into action. Often considered to be the most difficult stage in strategic management,
strategy implementation requires personal discipline, commitment, and sacrifice. Successful
strategy implementation hinges upon managers’ ability to motivate employees, which is more
an art than a science. Strategies formulated but not implemented serve no useful purpose.
Interpersonal skills are especially critical for successful strategy implementation.
Strategy-implementation activities affect all employees and managers in an organization.
Every division and department must decide on answers to questions, such as “What must we
do to implement our part of the organization’s strategy?” and “How best can we get the job
done?” The challenge of implementation is to stimulate managers and employees throughout
an organization to work with pride and enthusiasm toward achieving stated objectives..