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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Intended and Emergent Strategies?

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The main difference between intended and emergent strategies lies in their development and execution:

Intended Strategies:

  1. Determined by a formal strategic planning process.
  2. Supported by traditional planning tools and methods, such as SWOT analysis, PESTLE framework, and Porter's Five Forces.
  3. Described in a formal business plan.
  4. Implements a top-down approach to management.
  5. Takes a rigid approach to management, considered to be less flexible.

Emergent Strategies:

  1. Develop as unforeseen outcomes are identified from the execution of strategy.
  2. Evolve and adapt over time based on the changing environment.
  3. Implement a bottom-up approach to management.
  4. Favored by many business practitioners due to its high flexibility.

In summary, intended strategies are pre-defined and determined through a formal planning process, while emergent strategies evolve and adapt over time in response to changes in the external environment. Intended strategies follow a top-down approach and are considered less flexible, whereas emergent strategies implement a bottom-up approach and are highly flexible.

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  • What is the Difference Between Intended and Emergent Strategies?
  • Comparative Table: Intended vs Emergent Strategies

    • Comparative Table: Intended vs Emergent Strategies

    Here is a table comparing the differences between intended and emergent strategies:

    Feature Intended Strategies Emergent Strategies
    Definition Intended strategies are the strategies that an organization hopes to execute. Emergent strategies are unplanned strategies that arise in response to unexpected opportunities and challenges.
    Planning Intended strategies are usually detailed in an organization's strategic plan or business plan. Emergent strategies evolve and adapt over time based on the changing environment.
    Flexibility Intended strategies are typically more rigid and adhered to strictly. Emergent strategies allow for more flexibility and adaptation to unforeseen circumstances.
    Focus Intended strategies focus on long-term goals and objectives. Emergent strategies focus on short-term opportunities and challenges.
    Examples An organization might plan to expand its market share by 10% within the next five years. An organization might adopt a new product line in response to a sudden increase in customer demand.

    In summary, intended strategies are pre-planned and usually focus on long-term goals, while emergent strategies are unplanned and arise in response to unexpected opportunities and challenges, allowing for more flexibility and adaptation. Both types of strategies have their advantages and can be used in different situations to achieve organizational success.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.