Planning for the New Normal

 
Yesterday, we discussed best practices for marketing communications. Now, we examine best practices in planning for the new normal.

Seven Shifts That Affect Planning for the New Normal

So, what exactly should we be aware of when planning ahead?

According to McKinsey, the following represents a good starting point:

The COVID-19 pandemic poses staggering health and humanitarian challenges. While the crisis evolves, companies must act on multiple fronts to protect their employees,. As well as customers, supply chains, and financial performance. Retail and consumer-goods sectors have been particularly affected. With frontline employees directly at risk. And as companies struggle with demand either rapidly evaporating. Or surging well past the available supply.

These most trying of circumstances forced organizations to adapt quickly. In the process, many achieved what they wanted, yet failed to deliver for years. They make decisions faster. Innovation cycles dropped from months to days. Previously, working remotely benefited only a portion of workers. Now, it seems an imperative for most employees. Companies put greater emphasis on employees’ physical and mental health than before. And they celebrate leadership capabilities that weren’t deemed critical before the crisis.

These shifts occurred out of necessity. Without thoughtful action. Thus, many of the recent changes will likely revert over time to more traditional approaches. Leading companies will use this moment as an opportunity to rethink their operating models for the future. Then to reset them. 

Take a look at this chart. To see the seven new behaviors for organizations that McKinsey expects. As firms set their aspirations for the new normal. Click here to read about these new behaviors.