Case Studies
A new strategy had been approved by the board; what were the options and practical steps that the executive team could take that could lead to rapid results?
Polaris helped with a rapid review of the strategy that separated the detail from critical challenges to be addressed. By focusing on a core of the strategic intent, vulnerabilities and opportunities were identified, rapidly leading to implementation options and practical
actions.
Strategy review for
mutual bank
The first phase of the strategy had been successfully executed and the next phase involved investment in growth initiatives; how could the options be weighed, and agreement reached?
Polaris helped to structure and facilitate a one-day board and executive workshop with an agenda that ranged from necessary compliance topics to exploration of growth options. By structuring the agenda into a narrative that led to clear decision points, and keeping the discussion relevant to the decisions required, the board was able to conclude the day with clear direction on priorities for the
executive team
Facilitation of board strategy workshop for a mutual health fund
A new product had been designed and deployed, but traction was slower than expected; what could the leadership team do to grow into an opportunity they knew was there?
Polaris took a fact-based approach to rapidly identify and size market segments, assess needs and trends affecting the opportunity, recommend segment prioritisation, and develop an analysis of required capabilities. By conducting a self-assessment survey with the client, the team also helped gauge key capabilities gaps so that investment could be directed to drive impact. The approach and insights from the project not only helped the client team pivot to a clear market (with immediate results) but also led to a broader assessment of ‘where to play’ for the organisation.
Commercialisation review for education business of professional member association
A steady decline in member numbers was affecting financial
sustainability; what strategies should be deployed to reverse the trend?
Polaris took a pragmatic approach to developing the strategy,
collaborating closely with the board and executive team. This
involved diagnosing the core challenge to reduce the scope and complexity of the issues, then working with the board and executive to define strategies and a roadmap, and, finally, recommending practical actions to stabilise financial performance and establish a foundation for growth. Polaris also helped to design a top-down organisation structure that streamlined business operations and brought together capabilities for greater community impact
