A new operating model for a new world

🚀 Transforming Strategy into Impact: McKinsey's New Operating Model Framework

In today’s volatile landscape, where geopolitical, technological, and societal shifts challenge traditional ways of working, McKinsey introduces a bold approach: “Organize to Value.”

This framework helps leaders close the gap between vision and execution by aligning 12 dynamic elements—including purpose, talent, leadership, and rewards—toward what matters most: delivering impact.

📊 As shown below, companies leveraging emergent operating structures significantly outperform their peers in adaptability and readiness to navigate disruption. The key? Understanding and designing a fit-for-purpose operating model that delivers:

• 🔍 Clarity

• ⚡ Speed

• 🧠 Skills

• 🤝 Commitment

The 12 elements of the ‘Organize to Value’ system

Element	Definition	Link to performance
Purpose	How the organization defines its core reason for being	Clear purpose helps employees and stakeholders navigate uncertainty
Value agenda	How the organization creates value	Clarity on the value agenda enables optimal resource allocation
Structure	How accountable units and mission teams are designed	Internal organization in the service of strategy enhances prioritization and accountability
Ecosystem	How the organization works with partners to create   value	External partnerships create and share value beyond the organization’s boundaries and capabilities
Leadership	How leaders make decisions and catalyze action	Roles and dominant approach to decision-making are clear and consistently implemented
Governance	How to set priorities, allocate resources, and manage business performance	Ensures enterprise resources are managed in a consistent, integrated way in alignment with the strategy
Processes	How workflows are designed	Approach to value-creating activities is clear and consistent across the enterprise
Technology	How digital, data, and AI enable value creation	Data and AI are deployed to increase productivity and drive new sources of value creation
Behaviors	How culture is nurtured across the organization	A unique “secret sauce” creates value for employees and customers
Rewards	How people are rewarded for performance	Rewards support the desired behaviors and practices that increase value
Footprint	How the organization locates and deploys talent	The right skills are available in the right locations in alignment with business needs and priorities
Talent	How the organization attracts and develops talent	The right capabilities are available to meet value creation goals

McKinsey recommends leaders take three decisive steps:

• Compare your model’s fingerprint with high performers

• Choose to refine or reinvent

• Commit to measurable performance outcomes

A modern operating model isn't just an internal blueprint—it’s a value engine. It aligns strategy and resources, empowers tech-driven workflows, builds future-ready talent, and reinforces a high-performance culture.

💡 Learn more from McKinsey’s article: How to create an effective operating model | McKinsey