Fast Cycle Time How to Align Purpose Strategy and structure for speed

Christopher Meyer

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Inspired by such corporations as Motorola, General Electric, Citicorp, and others who have cut production time in half, many companies struggle to become "time-based" competitors. Christopher Meyer demonstrates that fast-cycle time is achieved by aligning the organization to learn faster, instead of merely working faster. He describes how to assemble multifunctional teams into integrated production systems by empowering workers with an eight-step process and "tool kit" to reduce non-value-added activities, and shows why fast-cycle time is the competitive requirement for any industry in the 1990s.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Speed as a Competitive Advantage: Meyer discusses how speed in decision-making, product development, and execution can be a significant competitive advantage in a rapidly changing environment.

  2. Alignment of Purpose, Strategy, and Structure: The book emphasizes the need for alignment across the organization - from the overarching purpose and strategy to the structural framework. When these elements are in sync, it allows for quicker and more efficient operations.

  3. Flexible Organizational Structures: Meyer explores the importance of flexible and adaptive organizational structures. Companies need structures that allow for quick decision-making, encourage innovation, and facilitate rapid responses to market changes.

  4. Customer-Centric Approach: Aligning with customer needs and market demands is critical for speed. Companies should prioritize customer insights and feedback to drive quick and relevant actions.

  5. Empowerment and Decentralization: Empowering teams and decentralizing decision-making processes can expedite responses to challenges and opportunities. This approach fosters agility and reduces bureaucratic bottlenecks.

  6. Rapid Learning and Adaptation: Organizations need to be quick learners and adopters of new technologies, processes, and strategies. Fast cycle times require a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.

  7. Strategic Innovation: Meyer discusses the importance of strategic innovation for rapid growth. Companies should focus on developing innovative products, services, or processes that meet emerging market needs.

  8. Risk Management and Iterative Processes: Implementing risk management practices and iterative processes allows companies to experiment and learn from failures quickly, enabling faster adaptation and improvement.

  9. Performance Metrics for Speed: The book suggests reevaluating traditional performance metrics to align with speed objectives. Metrics should focus on outcomes related to speed, efficiency, and innovation.

  10. Continuous Improvement Culture: Building a culture that values and supports continuous improvement is crucial. Organizations that encourage and reward innovation and agility tend to thrive in fast-paced environments.

Language English
ISBN-10 9780029211816
No of pages 290
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Free Press
Published Date 01 Jun 1993

About Author

Author : Christopher Meyer

2 Books

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