7S Model (McKinsey)

Diagram of the McKinsey 7S Model showing seven interconnected elements: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Staff, Skills, Style, and Shared Values at the center. Each component includes examples such as long-term goals, org design, processes, roles, competencies, leadership culture, and organizational mission.”
The 7S Model primarily addresses structural friction by emphasizing the alignment of organizational elements. It identifies internal aspects like structure, systems, and shared values to ensure they support and reinforce the overall strategy and goals, thereby resolving organizational design and alignment issues.

The 7S Model (McKinsey) is a diagnostic tool used for analyzing and improving organizational effectiveness. It encompasses seven interdependent factors which are categorized as either 'hard' or 'soft' elements: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Shared Values, Skills, Style, and Staff. This framework helps organizations assess and align these elements to ensure they are mutually reinforcing, thereby enhancing performance and facilitating change management.

Steps / Detailed Description

Identify the current state of each of the seven elements within the organization. | Analyze how well the elements align with each other and with the overall organizational strategy. | Plan interventions to improve alignment and address gaps or misalignments. | Implement changes and monitor the impact on organizational effectiveness. | Continuously review and adjust the seven elements as necessary.

Best Practices

Regularly review and update the assessments of the 7S elements. | Ensure top management buy-in and involvement in the process. | Use the model in conjunction with external analysis tools.

Pros

Provides a comprehensive view of the organization. | Facilitates alignment between different organizational aspects. | Supports effective change management.

Cons

Can be complex to implement due to interdependencies. | May require significant time and resources. | Focuses more on internal factors, potentially overlooking external influences.

When to Use

During organizational restructuring or mergers. | When implementing a new strategic direction.

When Not to Use

For solving quick, tactical or isolated problems. | When external factors are the primary concern.

Related Frameworks

Lifecycle

Not tied to a specific lifecycle stage

Scope

Scope not defined

Maturity Level

Maturity level not specified

Time to Implement

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Copyright Information

Autor:
Tom Peters, Robert Waterman
1980
Publication:
McKinsey & Company