How future competent is your organisation?

One consistent insight has emerged throughout this report: although we cannot determine the future, we can prepare for it. Successful future organisations will do more than embrace change. They will anticipate, identify and drive it.

No single strategy will prepare an organisation for the future. By understanding what might happen, however, leaders and managers will have a better chance to make sure that their organisations and teams are effective, capable and competitive.

To prompt your thinking and stimulate debate, the CMI has created a framework to allow you to ask the right questions, debate the topic and start the process to ensure that your organisation is future proofed.

Geared up for gloom and doom

Managers are feeling insecure but optimistic that they can steer a path though the current malaise

BACKGROUND

• Don’t panic and stay close to your clients

• Some sources of help and inspiration

• Be master of your own fate

• Communication is key

BACKGROUND

• Look to the constants in a bumpy future

• Managing is easy when times are good

• Are you ready for the future?

• When it comes to the crunch

1 Have you articulated the key questions about the future of your business?
2 Have you uncovered the assumptions of your team and of experts about the future of your business?
3 Are you aware of the possible surprises that may shake the foundations of your business?
4 Have you identified key opportunities for the future of your business?
5 Do you have a clear vision of where you want to be with your business in the short, medium and long term?
6 Is the short, medium and long-term strategy articulated and can it be implemented?

By answering these questions, you will have a clearer idea of how well positioned your organisation is to begin preparing for future challenges and opportunities. Coupled with the analysis of possible futures and the recommendations detailed in this supplement, it will help you to begin the process of putting your business on course for the kind of future you want. www.managers.org.uk/future

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