The reality is that a good organization has an effective balance of anchors, sitting ducks, problem children, rising stars, cash cows and bright ideas. An institution with too many anchors, sitting ducks and problem children will probably not have enough cash flow to sustain itself over the longer term. Ideas are seldom tested and validated externally. One to two years to obtain buy-in or approval is probably too long. Showing the money is certainly not a perfect solution but neither is waiting for years for a new program, a new mission or a new vision.
Tall poles are programs that push more aggressively upward than others.
The identification of tall poles is the foundation for building new programs and striking change profiles in organizations. All programs cannot be pushed equally. Choices must be made and resources allocated to the tall poles. Practical Audacious Move Don't waste money printing hard copy catalogs and brochures. Use Web sites.