GOAL: Visualize operational and financial gaps and sequence priorities

Overview

This framework helps mission-driven leaders optimize their strategic and operational success. Created from an operations perspective, it facilitates discussions on operational priorities and long-term strategic planning.

The framework surfaces areas needing improvement to enhance organizational efficiency. It balances objective metrics with subjective insights to determine priorities. Built from experience in scaling operations from startup to maturity, this framework enables sequential planning for growing organizations. However, not every organization needs all elements - adapt it to your specific context, goals, and strategy.

Framework

Operational Scaffolding Framework © 2025 by Horizon Tactics is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

Instructions

1) Complete the Framework: Determine the optimal method to mark each component of the framework using three colors based on your specific circumstances:

• Green indicates areas well covered with minimal need for improvement
• Yellow indicates areas likely requiring improvement or additional coverage
• Red indicates areas requiring significant improvement or capacity

Note 1: Methodology may vary between team and individual use.

Note 2: Level 4 components are designed for continuous improvement and may stay in a "Yellow" state.

Note 3: Consider reviewing foundational pillars (Governance, Strategy, Vision, Values) alongside this framework as time and capacity allow.

2) Review and Discuss: Review the completed framework with stakeholders. Celebrate green successes, address yellow areas needing minor improvements, and prioritize discussing red areas that require significant attention.

3) Set Priorities: This framework helps visualize priorities—with lower items in "Level 1" typically needing attention first. However, your organization's specific context and strategy should ultimately guide how you prioritize improvements.

Example Completed Framework

The team can easily see areas they need to focus on in red and prioritize accordingly as they see fit. They can also discuss yellow areas for shared comprehension on nuances and any priorities in these areas.