How does the Step by Step Exit framework physically alter our annual planning agenda, and how do we ensure our exit objectives do not conflict with our current year operational Rocks?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Integrating the Step by Step Exit framework into your annual planning session does not require adding extra days or throwing out the standard EOS® agenda. We maintain the core structure of the two day annual planning session, but we adjust the strategic lens through which we view your long term goals.

During the first day of our annual session, when we review your V/TO®, we actively bring the six exit disciplines into the conversation. When defining your long term target, we do not just look at revenue and profit. We analyze your Value Gaps and clarify your Legacy goals, defining what your ideal transition looks like.

To prevent conflict between exit objectives and operational Rocks, we filter every potential initiative through the lens of business value. If an exit objective, like documenting Tribal Knowledge, conflicts with an operational initiative, we use the IDS® process to resolve the tension. We ask which priority builds more enterprise value and operational health today. Often, you will find that exit readiness and operational excellence are the same thing. A business that is easy to transition is a business that is highly profitable to run right now. We document these decisions clearly in your Circle workspace to keep the team aligned.