Greiner’s model of growth lists six phases. It also illustrates the root problems that are likely to occur at the end of each phase. A phase can be any length of time depending on how you quickly you overcome the problems as they arise. These crises (as Greiner describes them) occur when changes in the business structure, its leadership, and its management of core activities haven’t been implemented as the business has grown.

This video starts the process of looking at your vision for growth and recognising the resources you need to achieve that using the Five Phase Business Plan.

Feel free to request the templates laura@thehiddenedge.co.uk. I am happy to share.

Creativity: The founder is at the heart of everything in this business as it grows. Eventually no one really knows what is going on so the next level of growth is though

Direction: The business recruits a strong leader, who provides clear direction to drive the business forward.  Eventually the size of the business means autonomy needs to give way to empowerment. The next level of growth is through

Delegation:  More responsibility has to be delegated to more people in the business which has its own crisis, that of control. The next level of growth is through

Coordination: Direction and delegation is controlled through a series of systems. The introduction of accountability for actions and decisions results in the crisis of Red Tape. The next level of growth is though

Collaboration: The building of team and collaborative working groups resolves the issue of silo empires.  This breaks down the business into smaller working groups and thus the next level of growth is through alliances

1. Consider your position on the growth curve and the difficulties that you have already encountered and those you might
2. Compile a visual description of what the next 5 levels of growth will look like for your business.  The levels do not have a time constraint
3. Consider the physical and human resources you will need to accrue to ensure each level is successfully attained
4. Research the cost of the resources to the business

Please do share your experiences with this model in the comments below.  I am building a portfolio of small business case studies and would love to include examples of what has worked well for you.

PS – If you need further help then give me a call on 07962 626604 to arrange a Skype session with me.

PPS – This exercise forms part of a series of workshops on Double Trouble Shooting

Published by TheHiddenEdge

I love words - they communicate so much or so little depending on how you use them. Come and explore my thoughts with me in this, my learning journal. View all posts by TheHiddenEdge