Strategy and action plan for a future-proof organization

With the planned merger between the Department of Work and Social Economy (DWSE) and the Department of Economics, Science and Innovation (EWI), the need arose to identify and prioritize existing organizational risks. At the same time, the management team wanted to pay attention to DWSE's strengths and the opportunities presented by this merger.

The challenge was to formulate, within a limited time frame, a supported overview of risks, opportunities and strengths and to translate this into a concrete action plan that prepares the organization for the future. In addition, the department's data and digitization strategy was also scrutinized.

The process consisted of three phases, focusing on co-creation and participatory methodologies:

1. Preparation: Discussions with the executive team sharpened the objectives and synthesized already available information, such as previous risk analyses. This input served as the basis for the workshops.
2. Workshops during management days:
   • Sept. 5 (morning): Identification and prioritization of organizational risks and opportunities through McKinsey's 7S model and SWOT analyses.
   • September 5 (afternoon): Review of data and digitization strategy in collaboration with Idea Consult.
   • September 6 (morning): Formulate a concrete action plan using the Start-Stop-Continuous method and an impact/effort matrix.
3. Reporting: The results of the workshops were incorporated into a clear and actionable action plan that helps the organization mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

Through interactive and results-oriented sessions, all participants were actively involved in the thought process, ensuring strong support and concrete outcomes.

The management days produced the following results:

• Updated overview of organizational risks: With priorities that form the basis for merger plans.
• Concrete opportunities and strengths: A positive vision for the future that emphasizes DWSE's unique value within the new organization.
• A practical action plan: Clear actions and responsibilities formulated based on the risks, strengths and opportunities.

The action plan provides guidance for the management team to guide the merger in a structured and proactive manner, keeping in mind both challenges and opportunities.

With this trajectory, the Department of Work and Social Economy demonstrates its proactive approach in times of change. By focusing on risks, strengths and opportunities, the department is creating a solid foundation for its planned merger with the Department of Economics, Science and Innovation. The collaboration between DWSE, Idea Consult and The Argonauts highlights the importance of co-creation, focus and a positive approach in achieving organizational goals.