Do you rely on "Do-for-that" strategy?

Or do you use “Discover-for-that” strategy? Probably this is new to you.

I need you to learn when to use each one to master outcomes.

I created these labels based on the nature of each strategy to distinguish between two categories of approaches.

I’ve noticed that businesses use the 'Do-for-that' strategy without recognizing the scenarios they’re facing. Understanding these situations helps determine which category of strategy to use.

Usually, this happens when you instinctively rely on others. Asking what their strategy was and how they achieved the desired outcomes. Without considering if it applies to your situation.

The problem

Is that in any situation you face, you default to borrowing others' actionable steps and strategies. This way of thinking has become the norm.

Do you realize how often you skip assessing the scenario you're facing and default to using others' actions or assumptions? I'm going to help you understand what to do instead.

Through my experience, learning, and observation, I've identified two categories of strategy. Based on the need and nature of each strategy, I have defined these categories as follows:

1. Do-for-that strategy.

2. Discover-for-that strategy.

Each is used for a specific situation and need. Learn what each one does, when to use it, and how to apply it effectively.

Do-for-that strategy:

You do this to achieve that. A ready-made strategy with actionable steps to follow for a specific outcome. you use it for fixed needs with few components. To address surface-level challenges.

This type of strategy is action steps that others have discovered. And later those in similar situations will adopt it . But, over time, the strategy may become less effective due to changes in the specific environment.

And the history of this type of strategy began with discovery—it's validated as successful before being widely adopted.

Examples:

• If you want to attract more clients, then optimize your Linkedin profile.

• If you want to be seen as an industry expert, then consistently produce valuable content.

• If you want immediate exposure or leads, then invest in targeted paid advertising.

• If you want to grow your customer base, then implement a referral program.

Discover-for-that strategy:

You figure out the strategy in order to execute it. This category of strategy doesn't come with ready-made action steps. Instead, you go through a discovery process. Understanding the problem, the need, and the goals. then you design a strategy to implement

You use this type for variable needs, that has many components, and addresses deeper, more complex needs.

This category of strategy requires a longer discovery process, and others can’t adopt it since it’s unique to each environment and need. You can apply this type of strategy for both present and future challenges.

Examples:

• Startup tests key assumptions with pilots to refine its wearable tracker before launch.

• Lego Ideas crowdsources designs from its fan community to drive product development.

• Startups engage with early adopters to validate, and refine product before scaling.

• Empathy and rapid prototyping to uncover customer needs and drive innovative solutions.

• Nike track emerging cultural and technological trends to launch pioneering products.

Note the difference: In the former, you follow ready-made action steps. In the latter, you need to go through a discovery process to design a strategy to follow. You may go through a discovery process even for a 'Do-for-that' strategy if existing ones are no longer effective.

It's key to differentiate between these two categories of strategies. To deliver successful outcomes and achieve goals. Based on the scenario you're facing, ask yourself:

Do I need to follow ready-made strategy action steps, or do I need to discover what the strategy should be?

Assess your scenario, the level of the need, and its magnitude.

No one has ever reached a breakthrough without discovery.

Do you always ask others for their strategy?

Thanks for reading, we will talk in the next letter.

Ahmed

By the way, here is:

1. A fun way to connect with people that leads to opportunities Toilet Mind

2. A new way to innovate and solve business challenges Neo Strateje