Deming Prize recipient Ryuji Fukuda introduced a document to my company in 1989 referred to as the “X-Type Matrix for Objective Management.” Relatively unknown at the time, it’s since become a popular format for strategy deployment.

Named for the X format that connects strategic (3–5 years) objectives to tactical improvements, measures, and annual targets, its purpose, as Fukuda explained, was to clarify an organization’s strategic direction and then create vertical and horizontal alignment and resourcing for a carefully chosen set of improvement priorities.

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