The X-Matrix is a document that helps to create ownership, alignment, and detailed plans for achieving strategic objectives. Learn how this template guides the critical thinking process as an organization asking what we must achieve this year to be on track to our long-term goals.

While the X-Matrix is a simple template that is easy to learn, there are several key points to remember when getting started. Learn the questions to ask before using the X-Matrix, what preparations are needed, and the importance of having a strategic plan as a starting point.

Deploying a strategy using the X-Matrix is more than copying details of the strategic plan into a template. Successful level-by-level deployment requires making connections between the actions, targets, and the resources needed to meet our objectives. Learn what information goes in each section of an X-Matrix and the steps for creating the top level matrix.

The heart of strategy deployment with the X-Matrix is the process of creating ambitious but achievable plans. This requires a collaborative approach to building the plan, level by level. Learn how to begin with the top level X-Matrix and progress to level 2 and beyond, following the template and a series of repeatable steps.

Having a process for frequent progress reviews is essential to expose problems, spur corrective action, and accelerate organizational learning during strategy deployment. Learn the main focus of these review meetings and how documents such as the bowling chart and corrective action form support monthly progress reviews.

The bowling chart is a tool that supports strategy deployment by making the monthly progress or delay visible for each strategic improvement priority. Learn the information required in each section of the bowling chart, as well as how to create and use them during monthly strategy reviews.

Both the X-Matrix and the A3 form are popular formats used for hoshin planning and strategy deployment. Learn the strengths and limitations of each and how to make effective use of one or both tools.