Strategic thrusts

Definition (1):

Special efforts that are early steps in executing a broader strategy, usually involving significant resource commitments yet where predetermined feedback will help management determine whether continuing to pursue the strategy is appropriate or whether it needs adjustment or major change. These strategic thrusts provide managers with information that helps them determine whether the overall strategy is progressing as planned or needs to be adjusted.

Definition (2):

These are high-degree actions resulting from the strategic insight or vision and work for guiding the action plans to some comprehensive goals.

Definition (3):

“Strategic Thrusts is a strategic approach based on 5 strategic drivers (thrusts) by Wiseman, Rackoff, and Ulrich ('85) to analyze the role of new information technologies at a business strategy level.”

The five strategic drivers are as follows:

• Differentiation
• Cost
• Innovation
• Growth and
• Alliance

These thrusts are analyzed and reviewed in association with three main strategic targets: Customers, Suppliers, and Competitors.

A company can develop strategic information systems with a combination of these thrusts and targets. This information technology strategic process includes six steps:

1. Presenting a tutorial about strategic information systems (SIS) and competitive strategies.
2. Applying strategic information systems concept to real cases.
3. Considering the company’s competitive position.
4. Brainstorming for SIS opportunities in several teams.
5. Discussing these opportunities for clarification.
6. Evaluating these opportunities by ranking and rating different proposals.