Big Results From Big Ideas

From the late 80's to early 90's I worked as a management consultant at Nolan, Norton & Company. I learned firsthand that Dr. Richard Nolan is a "big ideas" kind of guy. Clients were amazed and enthralled by his presentations. I'll never forget watching him draw on a white board using both hands simultaneously. When he was done, every client in the room would be ready to buy whatever he was selling. They just weren't sure what, exactly, that was. Another consultant would need to step in and translate his big ideas into a specific proposal.

Today, in my executive coaching capacity, I frequently encounter top executives with big ideas. Motivating others through possibilities and visions, these leaders initiate bold, sweeping moves aimed at transforming their organizations. Unfortunately, sometimes these initiatives die on the drawing board. Far-reaching strategy is never translated into sustainable action.

Effective leaders ensure that their followers' excitement has direction and purpose. Big ideas are broken down into small, persistent actions. Four initial activities are critical:

1. Explain strategic objectives, and determine how success will be measured.


2. Define programs required to initiate, monitor, and sustain the big idea.


3. Fund required programs.


4. Cancel programs that distract management attention away from the new big idea.

Clear outcome measures, program planning, resources for sustainability, and management focus are all prerequisites for turning big ideas into big results.