The MBA framework that’s actually useful

Last week, I cracked open my MBA strategy textbook after a hiatus.

Some MBA frameworks are the corporate equivalent of watching paint dry.

But I stumbled across one that’s actually useful: the McKinsey 7-S Framework.

And no, you don’t need an MBA or a six-figure consulting gig to use it.

This week, I applied it to my local newsletter project. The one about events in Leinster that I wrote to you about earlier this month.

The framework helped me spot gaps I’d been ignoring—like the fact I had no real systems in place and my “strategy” was basically “wing it and see what happens.”

Not exactly a recipe for scale.

The McKinsey 7-S Framework breaks your business into seven elements. Three hard elements (Strategy, Structure, Systems).

And four soft ones (Skills, Staff, Style, Shared Values).

Here’s how it played out for my local newsletter:

The framework isn’t just for Big Consulting.

If your business feels disorganized or you’re not sure where the gaps are, this framework will give you clarity in about 20 minutes.

Check it out.

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P.S. Feeling stuck on which system to build next? I help creators and business owners cut through the noise and focus on what actually moves the needle. Reply “HELP” and let’s chat.