Through involvement in the strategic-planning process, who must become "owners" of the strategy?

The involvement of line managers as "owners" of the strategy is crucial because they are responsible for implementing the strategic plans on a day-to-day basis. Line managers have firsthand knowledge of operational challenges and insights into how the strategy can be realistically executed within their teams. Their close connection to both the workforce and the processes allows them to contribute valuable input during the strategic planning process, ensuring that strategies are not just theoretical but also practical and applicable in real-world scenarios.

Additionally, when line managers are engaged and take ownership of the strategy, they are more likely to commit to the vision and goals outlined in the plan, leading to enhanced motivation and alignment of their teams with the organizational objectives. This buy-in is essential for successful execution, as line managers are tasked with translating strategic goals into actionable tasks and driving performance among their staff.

While upper-level managers, support staff, and board members all play important roles in the strategic planning process, the direct engagement and ownership by line managers are pivotal for the practical application of the strategy within the operational framework of the organization.