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The Modern Strategist
Strat·e·gist
* Pronunciation: \ˈstra-tə-jist\
* Function: noun
: a big-idea person hired to make you money.
TSM is a discussion forum for marketing, advertising and media strategists getting results in the Information Age.
Any professional with an academic interest in strategy is encouraged to join.
Network Leader: Amanda Fox
Coach Al Johnson
Good evening fellow strategist! I'm new to the group. Curious what any of you do to improve your strategy development skills?
Jay Bitsack:
Hi Coach,
Depends on what you mean by strategy development... Very often, strategy development involves a process. And in that context, there are ...MoreHi Coach,
Depends on what you mean by strategy development... Very often, strategy development involves a process. And in that context, there are skills that are necessary at the process level and skills that are necessary at the component/elemental level. But not to belabor the technicalities, the simplest and most consistently relevant answer to your high-level question is: READ...a lot!
5 weeks ago
Depends on what you mean by strategy development... Very often, strategy development involves a process. And in that context, there are ...MoreHi Coach,
Depends on what you mean by strategy development... Very often, strategy development involves a process. And in that context, there are skills that are necessary at the process level and skills that are necessary at the component/elemental level. But not to belabor the technicalities, the simplest and most consistently relevant answer to your high-level question is: READ...a lot!
5 weeks ago
Clay Forsberg
Imagine if we didn't need government! Imagine if the social and economic "safety net" was your friends, your neighbors and yourself.
"Community 3.0" ... The people Have the Power, Part 3 ~ http://bit.ly/HQ8D6N
5 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist, Problem Solving, Political Bloggers, Nonprofiteers and Inspiring Leadership3 more
Jay Bitsack:
Hi Clay,
Yes, humanity as we know it on this globe is rapidly approaching (before the next century) a major tipping point. And the notion of ...MoreHi Clay,
Yes, humanity as we know it on this globe is rapidly approaching (before the next century) a major tipping point. And the notion of community building is right on target with what's needed for humanity to not only survive the transition, but to also prevail beyond that event. In this regard, you might find the following books to be highly complimentary to and supportive of your own thinking: 1) Limits to Growth, 2) The End of Growth: Adapting to Our New Economic Reality, and 3) The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On The End Of Shopping And The Birth Of A New World.
Very much in line with your concept for Community 3.), Chapter 7 of The End Of Growth addresses possible mechanisms for enabling a smooth(er) transition. One in particular, called "Transition Initiatives (or Towns), provides what might be a good elaboration on your ideas of what a 21st century community needs to be. Here's and excerpt from that chapter:
Transition Towns
Given the looming energy and environmental threats outlined in this book, it’s evident that something like the following is called for. We need a grassroots movement that educates people about these challenges and helps them develop strategies to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. It should aim to build community resilience, taking account of local vulnerabilities and opportunities. Ideally, this movement should frame its vision of the future in positive, inviting terms. It should aim to build a cooperative spirit among people with differing backgrounds and interests. While this movement should be rooted in local communities, its effectiveness would increase if it were loosely coordinated through national hubs and a global information center. The work of local groups should include the sharing of practical skills such as food production and storage, home insulation, and the development and use of energy conserving technologies. The movement should be non-authoritarian but should hold efficient meetings, training participants in effective, inclusive decision-making methods.
That may sound like a tall order. But here’s some good news: that movement already exists. It’s called Transition Initiatives, and communities that have one of these initiatives often call themselves Transition Towns.4 The “transition” that’s being referred to is away from our current growth-based, fossil-fueled economy and toward a future economy that is not only sustainable but also fulfilling and interesting for all concerned. Transition Initiatives got their start in 2005 in Britain through the work of a Permaculture teacher named Rob Hopkins. In his Transition Handbook, Hopkins tells how he came up with the strategy, and sets forth a range of useful guidelines for groups.5 Nearly all of Rob’s prose is saturated with irrepressible optimism:
Transition Initiatives are not the only response to peak oil and climate change; any coherent national response will also need government and business responses at all levels. However, unless we can create this sense of anticipation, elation and a collective call to adventure on a wider scale, any government responses will be doomed to failure, or will need to battle proactively against the will of the people.... Rebuilding local agriculture and food production, localizing energy production, rethinking healthcare, rediscovering local building materials in the context of zero energy building, rethinking how we manage waste, all build resilience and offer the potential of an extraordinary renaissance — economic, cultural and spiritual.6 Hopkins is careful to call Transition a “research project”; in a “cheerful disclaimer” on the Transition website he points out that there is no guarantee of success, because what is being attempted is unprecedented. We truly don’t know if this will work. Transition is a social experiment on a massive scale. What we are convinced of is this: • if we wait for the governments, it’ll be too little, too late • if we act as individuals, it’ll be too little • but if we act as communities, it might just be enough, just in time.7
Heinberg, Richard (2011-06-01). The End of Growth: Adapting to Our New Economic Reality (Kindle Locations 4757-4762). Perseus Books Group. Kindle Edition.
Regards,
Jay
5 weeks ago
Yes, humanity as we know it on this globe is rapidly approaching (before the next century) a major tipping point. And the notion of ...MoreHi Clay,
Yes, humanity as we know it on this globe is rapidly approaching (before the next century) a major tipping point. And the notion of community building is right on target with what's needed for humanity to not only survive the transition, but to also prevail beyond that event. In this regard, you might find the following books to be highly complimentary to and supportive of your own thinking: 1) Limits to Growth, 2) The End of Growth: Adapting to Our New Economic Reality, and 3) The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On The End Of Shopping And The Birth Of A New World.
Very much in line with your concept for Community 3.), Chapter 7 of The End Of Growth addresses possible mechanisms for enabling a smooth(er) transition. One in particular, called "Transition Initiatives (or Towns), provides what might be a good elaboration on your ideas of what a 21st century community needs to be. Here's and excerpt from that chapter:
Transition Towns
Given the looming energy and environmental threats outlined in this book, it’s evident that something like the following is called for. We need a grassroots movement that educates people about these challenges and helps them develop strategies to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. It should aim to build community resilience, taking account of local vulnerabilities and opportunities. Ideally, this movement should frame its vision of the future in positive, inviting terms. It should aim to build a cooperative spirit among people with differing backgrounds and interests. While this movement should be rooted in local communities, its effectiveness would increase if it were loosely coordinated through national hubs and a global information center. The work of local groups should include the sharing of practical skills such as food production and storage, home insulation, and the development and use of energy conserving technologies. The movement should be non-authoritarian but should hold efficient meetings, training participants in effective, inclusive decision-making methods.
That may sound like a tall order. But here’s some good news: that movement already exists. It’s called Transition Initiatives, and communities that have one of these initiatives often call themselves Transition Towns.4 The “transition” that’s being referred to is away from our current growth-based, fossil-fueled economy and toward a future economy that is not only sustainable but also fulfilling and interesting for all concerned. Transition Initiatives got their start in 2005 in Britain through the work of a Permaculture teacher named Rob Hopkins. In his Transition Handbook, Hopkins tells how he came up with the strategy, and sets forth a range of useful guidelines for groups.5 Nearly all of Rob’s prose is saturated with irrepressible optimism:
Transition Initiatives are not the only response to peak oil and climate change; any coherent national response will also need government and business responses at all levels. However, unless we can create this sense of anticipation, elation and a collective call to adventure on a wider scale, any government responses will be doomed to failure, or will need to battle proactively against the will of the people.... Rebuilding local agriculture and food production, localizing energy production, rethinking healthcare, rediscovering local building materials in the context of zero energy building, rethinking how we manage waste, all build resilience and offer the potential of an extraordinary renaissance — economic, cultural and spiritual.6 Hopkins is careful to call Transition a “research project”; in a “cheerful disclaimer” on the Transition website he points out that there is no guarantee of success, because what is being attempted is unprecedented. We truly don’t know if this will work. Transition is a social experiment on a massive scale. What we are convinced of is this: • if we wait for the governments, it’ll be too little, too late • if we act as individuals, it’ll be too little • but if we act as communities, it might just be enough, just in time.7
Heinberg, Richard (2011-06-01). The End of Growth: Adapting to Our New Economic Reality (Kindle Locations 4757-4762). Perseus Books Group. Kindle Edition.
Regards,
Jay
5 weeks ago
Clay Forsberg
The fundamental flaw in public education ... "we teach things, not thinking!"
I believe the problem is our education system focuses on teaching our children “things.” What’s wrong with teaching our students how to think, how learn on the fly and adapt. Please read and comment - http://bit.ly/tVtWOY
26 weeks ago from Education Conversations and The Modern Strategist
Noel Rozny:
Agree! With the exception of some fantastic middle school and elementary school teachers, I feel like I started learning how to think during my AP ...MoreAgree! With the exception of some fantastic middle school and elementary school teachers, I feel like I started learning how to think during my AP classes in high school.
26 weeks ago
26 weeks ago
Clay Forsberg:
Thanks for the endorsement Noel. Unfortunately, I believe we are witnessing a trend led by too many that are removed from the state of economic ...MoreThanks for the endorsement Noel. Unfortunately, I believe we are witnessing a trend led by too many that are removed from the state of economic and employment reality. It's up to us, and the students being affected to initiate the change that is so dearly needed
26 weeks ago
26 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Clay Forsberg
With all the recent of the prohibitive costs associated with Higher Education ... one would think the problem lies with the colleges and lack of cost control. But maybe the problem resides close to home. Maybe the is yourselves and our families. Please comment. I would love to hear your insight: "The real problem with Higher Education" http://bit.ly/vxhJmi
29 weeks ago from Business Development, The Modern Strategist, Career Changers and Education Conversations2 more
TOP IDEA:
Clay Forsberg
Having blog is not a right ... it's a privilege! Your readers that comment should not be left to idly sit by waiting for their comment to be approved - because you're too lazy to get to it. They put forth effort to help you. It's only appropriate that you put forth effort also, to react in a timely matter.
Don't put your best readers in the "Moderation Abyss." http://bit.ly/i6oAIg (Please read)
29 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist, Entrepreneurs, Personal Branding and Business Development2 more
Clay Forsberg
Our economic woes are not because of the banks, corporations or even the government. THEY'RE OUR FAULT!
It's time we take responsibility ... and control over our own future: http://bit.ly/vUOSxc
29 weeks ago from Entrepreneurs, Political Bloggers, Problem Solving and The Modern Strategist2 more
Keri Zuckerman:
Although I do believe there is greed within big corporations and the bailouts were shameful, I can't help but think what business doesn't want to ...MoreAlthough I do believe there is greed within big corporations and the bailouts were shameful, I can't help but think what business doesn't want to make a profit? The occupy wall st participants do not realize that they are part of the driving force of social inequality they are protesting. They are protesting corporate greed yet they text each other using their IPHONES, drinking STARBUCKS, wearing NORTHFACE and on top of it all they are a bunch of litterbugs. It's their consumerism that is the catalyst of it all.
If you want to make a difference help boycott these evil systems and live by your convictions!
29 weeks ago
If you want to make a difference help boycott these evil systems and live by your convictions!
29 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Clay Forsberg
Having blog is not a right ... it's a privilege! Your readers that comment should not be left to idly sit by waiting for their comment to be approved - because you're too lazy to get to it. They put forth effort to help you. It's only appropriate that you put forth effort also, to react in a timely matter.
Don't put your best readers in the "Moderation Abyss." http://bit.ly/i6oAIg (Please read)
29 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist, Entrepreneurs, Personal Branding and Business Development2 more
Clay Forsberg
Having blog is not a right ... it's a privilege! Your readers that comment should be left to idly sit by waiting for their comment to be approved because you're too lazy to get to it.
They put forth effort to help you. It's only appropriate that you put forth effort also to react in a timely matter.
Don't put your best readers in the "Moderation Abyss." http://bit.ly/i6oAIg (Please read)
29 weeks ago from Personal Branding, The Modern Strategist, Entrepreneurs and Business Development2 more
Heath Port
If you have a chance I highly recommend the National Geographic special Collapse. It looks at how past civilizations collapsed and how our tendency as humans to primarily focus on short term solutions could take our modern society down the same road. It really gets you thinking about how current politics, business practices and consumption are all geared to cause some severe problems over the next few decades if people don't start thinking longer term. It is in Neflix streaming.
Edward Antrobus and Noel Rozny recommended this
Heath Port:
@Noel,it is a little scary, but actually ends on a fairly optimistic note. Definitely check it out if you have the chance. It's one of those ...More@Noel,it is a little scary, but actually ends on a fairly optimistic note. Definitely check it out if you have the chance. It's one of those that really gets you thinking!
36 weeks ago
36 weeks ago
Heath Port
If you have a chance I highly recommend the National Geographic special Collapse. It looks at how past civilizations collapsed and how our tendency as humans to primarily focus on short term solutions could take our modern society down the same road. It really gets you thinking about how current politics, business practices and consumption are all geared to cause some severe problems over the next few decades if people don't start thinking longer term. It is in Neflix streaming.
Edward Antrobus recommended this
Jamie Nacht Farrell
I contend the definition of "career" as we've been taught is out dated. How would you define, "career" now days? people are "seeking" the wrong thing. People should NOT seek out a traditional career, but rather always be looking for "the next adventure". I wrote a post about how we can redefine what we look for to better our futures...and how that may or may not be a "traditional career". How do we get rid of that "preconceived" stigma attached to career? http://t.co/sLvOA8l
71 weeks ago from Creatively Inspired, Creating a Life You Love, The Modern Strategist, Upstarts! and Shotgun Startups3 more
Robin Mills recommended this
J.T. O'Donnell:
I've been using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs lately to explain to people their innate desire to find satisfying work. I agree Jamie. Nobody should ...MoreI've been using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs lately to explain to people their innate desire to find satisfying work. I agree Jamie. Nobody should feel guilty for pursuing something that excites them - it's human nature to want to feel satisfied. I love showing that pyramid to people - it's like giving them a license to finally go out and find work that impresses the only person that truly matters - themselves. Great post Jamie!
71 weeks ago
71 weeks ago
Jamie Nacht Farrell:
@JT - That's brilliant. I use Maslow's Hierarchy of needs when I'm mentoring colleagues in consumer behavior and marketing, but have not done so ...More@JT - That's brilliant. I use Maslow's Hierarchy of needs when I'm mentoring colleagues in consumer behavior and marketing, but have not done so in the world of careers (candidly, it's not my "field" - people are just always asking for advice), but I will definitely do so form now on. That was one of my fave. undergrad psych. courses. Thanks!
71 weeks ago
71 weeks ago
Anwar Salandy
With the advent of the Internet, smartphones, and social networking, what are some new marketing strategies that entrepreneurs can use that will attract new clients and customers?
Edward Antrobus:
Crush It is a good book, but Gary V seems like a one trick pony in it. I believe most successful businesses will be more multifaceted and most ...MoreCrush It is a good book, but Gary V seems like a one trick pony in it. I believe most successful businesses will be more multifaceted and most entrepreneurs will want a different business model than what he recommends.
38 weeks ago
38 weeks ago
Heath Port
I am always amazed when I am treated to great customer service. When this happens it not only makes my day that much better, but it also makes me wonder why this isn’t the norm? http://tinyurl.com/3zvl4z6
43 weeks ago from Blogging Ideas, The Modern Strategist, Rocky Mountain Networking, Denver Careerists and Boulder, CO3 more
Jason H. Parker recommended this
Regina Richardson:
When I get great customer service, I make a point of speaking with the manager(s)...they so rarely hear the good stuff.
43 weeks ago
43 weeks ago
JESS Kalinowsky:
A great deal of the time when one is treated well, they fail to give acknowledgment. I find it especially gratifying to make a point of thanking ...MoreA great deal of the time when one is treated well, they fail to give acknowledgment. I find it especially gratifying to make a point of thanking for the good customer service. Recently I reviewed a restaurant, and pointed out to the owner how great the customer service experience was from a busboy. The owner never shared that info with his employee. I asked the employee a day or so later if the owner had shared my compliments, and his response was "he never says anything nice to us!" That is sad! BAD OWNER! And I will point that out in my next review of the restaurant.
43 weeks ago
43 weeks ago
Amanda Veinott
How's your job going? Are you fulfilled or frustrated? Do you feel that your efforts are connected to your company's success? As part of BlessingWhite's ongoing global research, I invite you to participate in a 10-minute survey that will help us gauge what impacts employee engagement in 2010. Click here for the survey
http://www.bwtools.com/survey/go.asp?xs=LHDB&p1=BWAVe
Thanks!
Privacy policy http://www.blessingwhite.com/privacy_policy.asp
97 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist, Inspiring Leadership, Graduate Students, Social Media Marketers and Consultants R US3 more
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Mark Federman
How to improve productivity by 70% in 5 months (YMMV). "10 Lessons of Organizational Culture Transformation" http://goo.gl/1JKG5
49 weeks ago from Inspiring Leadership, The Modern Strategist and Non-Profit Management1 more
Kate Davids
I read The Design of Everyday Things recently and it occurred to me that that book is old. He barely mentions computers, if at all, and his examples are antiquated. And you know what? It's still highly applicable and worth a thorough read. I wrote a blog post on it, but wanted to hear what you all think about how the changes in technology have affected what "good design" means.
My post: http://katetheprofessional.wordpress.com/2011/05/30/the-design-of-everyd...
51 weeks ago from Advertising Professionals, Internet Marketers, New Media Marketing, Book Shelf and The Modern Strategist3 more
Jason H. Parker:
Hey, Kate! Interesting post--I never thought about the importance of designing "proper" visual cues so as to spur users into the correct action. ...MoreHey, Kate! Interesting post--I never thought about the importance of designing "proper" visual cues so as to spur users into the correct action. Great ideas, and thanks for sharing on Brazen. Way to rock the UK!
51 weeks ago
51 weeks ago
Kate Davids:
thanks Jason! I enjoyed reading that book a ton. It really threw how much we are sensory creatures into light. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
50 weeks ago
50 weeks ago
La Donna Lokey
8 Words That Should Never Appear in Your Twitter Bio http://bit.ly/j5TDiX Do you agree?
52 weeks ago from Citi, Social Media, Tech Gurus and The Modern Strategist2 more
Nikita T. Mitchell recommended this
Ty Unglebower:
I mostly agree, though I am not adamant about it. It's all about how you use them, and for that matter, how much you do outside of your profile. I ...MoreI mostly agree, though I am not adamant about it. It's all about how you use them, and for that matter, how much you do outside of your profile. I think these words smack a bit of unoriginality, but at the same time I don't think they necessarily are damaging.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Heath Port
My wife and I are relocating from Chicago to Denver this summer so she can take the next step in her career. This means I will be leaving my career here in Chicago and will be looking for a new professional home in the greater Denver area. If anyone has any tips on companies, solid local recruiters, people/groups to network with, etc, I would love to hear them. My background is in the strategy and planning field in health care but I am open to other industries as well. Thanks!
55 weeks ago from Denver Careerists, Boulder, CO, Rocky Mountain Networking, The Modern Strategist and Networking Tips3 more
Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Rebecca Thorman:
That's so great, Heath. Thanks for sharing. Always fascinates me how modern couples make decisions. It sounds like it's a great move for both of ...MoreThat's so great, Heath. Thanks for sharing. Always fascinates me how modern couples make decisions. It sounds like it's a great move for both of you! Hope you love Denver :)
55 weeks ago
55 weeks ago
Heath Port:
Happy to share Rebecca! My wife and I are a team and which ever one of us is in a situation to make things better for the both of us or put us ...MoreHappy to share Rebecca! My wife and I are a team and which ever one of us is in a situation to make things better for the both of us or put us closer to our other goals (geographic location, lifestyle, etc) we go with that. I guess we tend to be strategy nerds that way!
55 weeks ago
55 weeks ago
55 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist and Tech Gurus
TOP IDEA:
Clay Forsberg
"The government's not going to help you ... so get over it! Empower your neighborhood instead"
The public assistance pendulum has swung past the reach of those who truly need it. And it doesn't look like it's going to change anytime soon. There needs to be a different approach, a different plan.
I'd like to hear input on the idea of taking responsibility over social issues by creating non-governmental neighborhood groups. Check out my last post for more information: http://bit.ly/f4r8L2
57 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist, Political Bloggers, Barter on Brazen and Nonprofiteers2 more
Kevin Fernandes
"Micromanaging isn’t as dangerous as Macroleading." Henry Mintzberg, a legend in management thought defines Macroleading as when leaders get so focused on setting strategy & vision that they remove themselves from the front lines & eventually develop a vision for the organization so out of touch that the rest of the organization fails to buy in, or worse buys in but is incapable of taking any steps toward realization. http://theleaderlab.org/2010/12/macro-leading/
Kevin Fernandes
"Micromanaging isn’t as dangerous as Macroleading." Henry Mintzberg, a legend in management thought defines Macroleading as when leaders get so focused on setting strategy & vision that they remove themselves from the front lines & eventually develop a vision for the organization so out of touch that the rest of the organization fails to buy in, or worse buys in but is incapable of taking any steps toward realization. http://theleaderlab.org/2010/12/macro-leading/
TOP IDEA:
Clay Forsberg
Imagine investing in Gen Y - crowdfunding for students and young professionals.
Imagine a web site or portal with a variety of different young people on it, each looking for career assistance or opportunities. Limit it to young people, Gen Y. Each of these individuals would have to put up a profile or online portfolio. These portfolios would be a “Here I am world, this is what I’m all about and why you should invest in me.”
Check out the details and give me your input: http://bit.ly/hi1Dl5
59 weeks ago from Business Development, Entrepreneurs and The Modern Strategist1 more
Tracy Brisson recommended this
Mark Federman
You probably don't need me to tell you that the world is a complex place, and assuming the role of organizational leader is, among other things, challenging. Next Monday evening, April 11 in Toronto, from 17:30 to 21:00, I will be offering a public, introductory seminar on Leadership in Complexity.
The seminar is sponsored by the Canadian Organization Development Institute, and costs only $10. More information and a link for pre-registration is here: http://goo.gl/YIUMQ
59 weeks ago from Inspiring Leadership, The Modern Strategist, Ask A Coach and Non-Profit Management2 more
Dave Salamack
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker. So true in the quickly changing world of tech
83 weeks ago from The Modern Strategist and Tech Gurus
Ryan Healy, Anwar Salandy and Kristin Kline recommended this
Kate Davids:
I think this is a great quote for how to run your life. It's like the "dress for the job you want" advice.
60 weeks ago
60 weeks ago
