Priority is Action: A "Hack" Isn't a Sustainable Solution, Part 2

Priority isn’t what we say we want to do. Priority is action.

Thanks for subscribing, and exploring the critical gap between talk and action, with ideas from Priority is Action: 7 Principles for Better Strategies, Decisions, and Outcomes.

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Use Maturity Models the Right Way

The seventh principle of priorities that I explore in my book, Priority is Action is that short term “hacks” are just that: short-term, unsustainable fixes to bigger problems. Instead of finding a short-term fix, leaders need to take the time and focus to solve these issues before they either spiral out of control, or before the hacks put in place fail and cause deeper issues.

Maturity models - they're everywhere. Consultants, analysts, platform companies - you name it, they all have their own. Now, let's not get too excited. Most of them are, well, just fine. Rarely do they offer groundbreaking insights or measurement criteria. But hey, that's not the point.

The origins of maturity models

The concept of maturity models dates back to the late 1970s, allegedly born from the genius of Phillip B. Crosby. Or was it the Department of Defense in the 1980s? Regardless, here's the catch: using a maturity model beyond its original purpose can pose some challenges.

You see, these models won't magically tell you how to jump from a measly 2.3 score to a stellar 4.7. No, they work best when you play the long game - measuring progress relative to your own past performance, just like net promoter score (NPS) or customer satisfaction (CSAT). It's all about that regular assessment over time.

The real value of a maturity model

Now, let me hand the mic over to Christian Rosenstock and his colleagues. In their words, a maturity model is just a measuring stick, an indicator of progress. It won't guarantee organizational improvement on its own. Nope. But what it can do is highlight your weak spots. The results of a maturity model assessment can pave the way for an improvement plan. But executing that plan? Well, that's on you. And it's crucial to ensure everyone throughout the organization, especially those in higher executive roles, understands the role of a maturity model.

Must-listen episode from The Agile Brand podcast:

All that said...

I'm not saying maturity models are off the table by any means. I use them often in my own work (and have included several in my own books), so I think that they have their place and can offer some valuable insights. Just remember their limitations, and they'll be your trusted ally.

Now, let's get real for a moment. Hacks and quick fixes won't solve your organization's long-term challenges. Oh no, we're aiming for something bigger. We're talking repeatable, scalable, value-creating solutions. Solutions that prioritize continuous learning, cultural transformation, and intentional problem-solving. That's the recipe for sustainable growth and success. So, let's ditch the short-term thinking and invest in what truly matters.

In the next edition, we're going to look at how organizations that embrace priority as a strategic asset pull ahead of the competition.

Make sure to get the book, Priority is Action: 7 Principles for Better Strategies, Decisions, and Outcomes, now available in print, digital, and audio.