Every strategy works on paper. The real question is: can it hold up when the world changes?

This short stress test helps you assess how adaptable and complete your strategy really is. Will it work with rapid changes in technology (e.g.,  artificial intelligence) as well as shifts in competition, economic policy, business practices, or the changing whims of buyers?

Discuss the following facts with your leadership team with respect to being aware, agile, and aligned on strategic weakness. If you are not satisfied with your answers, or alignment, let's talk. The full Stress Test is a deeper qualitative and quantitative assessment.

1. External Forces

Have you considered how emerging trends in technology, policy, economics, climate, and talent could affect your strategy?

2. Assumption Pressure

If one key assumption behind your strategy proves wrong, would your core direction still hold?

3. Adaptability

Can your organization pivot without losing strategic clarity or alignment?

4. Competitive Shift

Are you prepared for new or unconventional competitors entering your market or space?

5. Customer Change

How well does your strategy anticipate changes in what your customers value or expect?

6. Supply and Talent Shocks

Can you continue to execute if a major supplier fails or key talent leaves?

7. Scenario Planning

Have you explored how your strategy performs under at least three different future scenarios?

8. Strategic Discipline

Would you make the same choices again if you had to start fresh today?

9. Leadership Alignment

Do your executive team and board agree on what your strategy is and why it matters?

10. Resilience Metrics

Are you actively tracking indicators that tell you whether your strategy needs to change?

“Not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed until it is faced.”

- James Baldwin