The Nature of Strategy Implementation
Successful strategy formulation does not guarantee successful startegy implementation. It is always more difficult to do something (strategy implementation) than to say you are going to do it (strategy formulation). Although inextricably linked, startegy implementation is fundamentally different from strategy fromulation. Strategy formulation and implementation can be contrasted in the following ways: * Strategy formulation is positioning forces before the action. * Strategy implementation is managing forces during the action. * Strategy formulation focuses on effectiveness. * Strategy implementation focuses in efficiency. * Strategy formulation is primarily an intellectual process. * Strategy implementation is primarily an operational process. * Strategy formulation requires good intuitive and analytical skills. * Strategy implementation requires special motivation and leadeship skills. * Strategy formulation requires coordination among a few individuals. * Strategy implementation requires coordination among many individuals.

Management perspectives
Implementation problems can arise because of the shift in responsibility, especially if SF decisions come as a surprise to middle- and lower-level managers. Therefore, it is essential to involve divisional and functional managers in strategy-formulation activities.

Management Issues Central to Strategy Implementation * Establish annual objectives * Devise policies * Allocate resources * Alter existing organizational structure * Restructure & reengineer * Revise reward & incentive plans * Minimize resistance to change * Match managers to strategy * Develop a strategy-supportive culture * Adapt production/operations processes * Develop an effective human resources function *