Company Operating Systems - CoS it's Thanksgiving - Matt Shaffer

Polaris Pathways - a Synozur podcast

In the latest episode of Polaris, Matt Shaffer delves into the concept of Company Operating Systems (CoS), exploring its framework, key components, and the importance of documentation and communication in achieving business goals. We discuss the distinction between strategic and operational focuses, the difference between strategy and planning, and share real-world applications of CoS in various organizations. The conversation also touches on the role of software in implementing CoS, best practices for successful implementation, and future trends in organizational design and strategy.

Takeaways

· A Company Operating System is a framework that helps maintain focus on business priorities.

· The four key components of a CoS are business foundations, strategy, annual plans, and focus rhythm.

· Goals are just one small piece of a larger operating system.

· Documentation is crucial for intentionality in achieving business objectives.

· Strategy involves long-term choices, while planning is about execution.

· Leading practices for implementation include (1) educate on CoS components; (2) understand the difference between strategy and planning; and (3) don't over-commit on quarterly rocks your first time.

How to get going = candid discussions with leaders, then workshops.

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Things we discussed on the show: General

· You can discover more about Polaris Hall at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs at Polaris Hall • United States Air Force Academy

· Matt has additional CoS resources hosted at www.salient7.com

· The “Think System” of Professor Harold Hill in The Music Man. [Spoiler: it doesn’t really work – bands have to actually, umm, practice.]

· The story behind the origin of “Big Rocks”, popularized by Stephen Covey in his work The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Summary – big rocks have to be tackled first.

Events

• ESPC24 - December 2--6 Stockholm Sweden, Jeff Teper keynote, Microsoft 365 an Azure teams and the best of the community across Europe and beyond. www.sharepointeurope.com
• Upgrade your Company Operating System Webinar - December 5: Join Matt for a live overview of company operating systems – a great place to get your questions answered. Register at https://aka.synozur.com/COS2024
• CollabCon - December 12: Hosted in Orlando, Florida – learn more at www.collabconforall.com

Chapters

· 00:00 Opening

· 00:16 Introducing Matt Shaffer and the Company Operating System

· 06:27 Common Leadership Challenges in Organizations

· 09:30 Understanding Company Operating Systems

· 12:19 Key Components of a Company Operating System

· 15:02 The Importance of Intentionality in Strategy

· 17:54 Distinguishing Between Strategy and Planning

· 20:38 Real-World Applications of Company Operating Systems

· 22:51 The Role of Software in Company Operating Systems

· 25:49 Best Practices for Implementing a Company Operating System

· 27:51 Future Trends in Organizational Design and Strategy

· 36:16 Introduction to Polaris and Its Significance

· 38:18 Matt Shaffer Wrapup

· 39:30 Upcoming Events and Announcements

· 40:50 Closing