Strategy Execution
Participation Prerequisites
None
Course Content
Strategy execution matters. In a lot of cases, it is the critical bottleneck to successful strategic management. However, there is no magic formula, and “one size fits all” techniques are rarely adequate solutions. Tough, uncomfortable choices need to be made. Therefore, this class discusses the key challenges in strategy execution by asking the seven strategy questions, primarily drawing from Simons (1995, 2005). Additionally, management control systems associated with each of the questions are presented. The class covers aspects of capital budgeting, belief and boundary systems, diagnostic control systems such as the Balanced Scorecard and performance measurement, accountability issues, interactive control systems, stretch goals, performance rankings, cost allocation and compensation issues.
Intended Learning Outcomes and Competencies
Upon completing this course, students will learn to critically evaluate and address the key challenges in strategy execution such as resource allocation, performance management, and risk management.
Instruction Type
Online
Form of Examination
Written solutions to case assignments prepared at home in teams (30%) and an individual analysis of an exam case study (70%).
Literature
During this course, we discuss a total of six cases (Sydney IVF, Citibank, Volkswagen, Henkel, Hydro One, GE). The course primarily draws on the following two books which are available in the library of WHU: 1. Simons, R. (1995): Levers of control: How managers use innovative control systems to drive strategic renewal. Boston: Harvard Business School Press. 2. Simons, R. (2005): Levers of organization design: How managers use accountability systems for greater performance and commitment. Boston: Harvard Business School Press. Additional (optional) readings, as needed, are announced in class and copies will be distributed electronically or can be found in the library of WHU. These are updated from time to time.
Next events
| 1/4 | Lecture | Sa, 21.03.2026 | 13:00 Uhr | 18:30 Uhr | |
| 2/4 | Lecture | Sa, 28.03.2026 | 13:00 Uhr | 18:30 Uhr | |
| 3/4 | Lecture | Sa, 11.04.2026 | 13:00 Uhr | 18:30 Uhr | |
| 4/4 | Lecture | Sa, 18.04.2026 | 13:00 Uhr | 18:30 Uhr |
Lecturers
Indicative Student Workload
| Workload per week including live sessions (approx.18.5) | 73 h |
| Examination | 2 h |