NIMBLE:  quick, alert, clever, agile, resourceful

Consider the overarching strategy of best-in-class organizations: an unrelenting focus on customers’ priorities. This includes adapting positively at a moment’s notice. Supporting this focus means deliberately preparing for swift action to weather uncertainty, but also spurring innovation and taking advantage of unanticipated opportunity.

Nimble organizations execute immediate business priorities, navigate current economic conditions, and prepare for future long term health. Cost containment may be essential, but leaders can cultivate existing resources to aid in that endeavor, while at the same time avoid the mistake of honing in on the tip of the iceberg. What can organizations do that will change the game in a substantive way and set the stage for prosperity? What proactive measures immediately address short term issues, but also maintain crucial alignment with long term organizational strategy?

RESOURCEFUL:  acting effectively or imaginatively, especially in difficult situations

At a time when many aspects of the business environment seem out of control, there are two resources that can be leveraged to increase productivity and flexibility: people and time. Almost all facets in any enterprise involve the intersection of people and time, and these resources are often overlooked and underutilized.