The well-known PESTEL methodology of doing an environmental scan is a simple and yet potentially powerful tool in organisation strategy development.
However, its weakness lies in the depth of thinking that underlies it. What I believe adds significantly to the value of the PESTEL process is to try and think through the focus area from the perspective of great South Africans.
Taking each focus area in turn and keeping your own situation in mind, this is the suggested approach…
The P in PESTEL stands for politics. In my view, South Africa’s greatest politician was Nelson Mandela. So when considering the political challenges and opportunities facing your organisation ask the question; “If Nelson Mandela was here what would he say?” I am sure the answers would be more thoughtful, mindful and useful.
The other letters in PESTEL stand for E – economy, S – society, T – technology, E – environment and L – legal.
In each case pick a great South African that you truly admire and ask the question:
“What would he/she say?”
My other SA greats are: Ec – Trevor Manuel; S – Desmond Tutu, T – Elon Musk, Ev – Heila Lotz-Sisitka and L – George Bizos.
While it’s impossible to ever have all these great people in the room, it is possible to try and think about the challenges and opportunities of your organisation through the eyes and minds of these great South Africans. I also propose you choose your own SA greats that work for your organisation to really get the most value out of this process.
For more insight into practical and effective strategic thinking and implementation contact john@arnesenandassociate.co.za
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