In an article for The evoLLLution, Anat Eshed (Southern New Hampshire University) argues that institutional strategies often fail because they are not aligned with an institution’s values or culture(s). Eshed emphasizes that integrating culture into strategic planning is a crucial task for leadership. To weave culture into strategic planning, the author recommends that leaders reflect on their institution’s microcultures; engage in scenario planning; and involve students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community in the process. Eshed also suggests conducting value-based innovation labs, dynamic values frameworks, and institutional audits as ways that leadership can demonstrate commitment to cultural alignment. “Remember, in the battle between culture and strategy, culture usually wins,” concludes Eshed. “So why not make them allies?”
