We are setting our 10-Year Target on our V/TO, but with the rapid pace of AI, we have no idea how our industry will look in a decade. How do we set a long-term strategic direction that remains stable without getting blindsided by technological disruption?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Setting a 10-Year Target is not about predicting the future of technology. It is about defining who you are, who you serve, and the ultimate destination of your organization. Technology will change, but the fundamental human needs of your clients and the core values of your company will remain stable.

When completing your V/TO, focus your 10-Year Target on the core problem your business solves, not the specific tools you use to solve it. For example, if you are a logistics company, your target might be centered on delivering flawless shipping reliability, regardless of whether that is achieved through self-driving trucks or AI-guided routing software.

Your 3-Year Picture and 1-Year Plan are where you adjust for technological advancements. This is where you decide how to implement modern tools to accelerate your progress toward that 10-Year Target. If a massive technological shift occurs, your core direction does not change, but your tactical execution does.

Keep your leadership team aligned by focusing on reality rather than speculation. Discuss industry trends during your annual planning sessions, but do not let hypothetical scenarios distract you from solving today's issues. By anchoring your long-term vision to your core purpose and maintaining a disciplined quarterly review pulse, you can confidently navigate any technological disruption without losing your way.