In technology leadership and product management, there’s often a dilemma: how do we turn ambitious visions into tangible results? The answer lies in the principle of “Think Big, Work Small.” This approach emphasises having a clear, overarching vision while breaking it down into smaller, manageable actions that drive progress. It’s a philosophy that has guided me through numerous technology transformations and product launches, ensuring that lofty goals are met with disciplined execution.
Why “Thinking Big” Matters
Having a big-picture view is essential for any leader. It provides a sense of direction and purpose that aligns teams, stakeholders, and resources around a shared objective. When you think big, you’re not just setting goals – you’re articulating a vision of what the future could look like if everything is executed as planned. This can be incredibly motivating, providing a clear ‘why’ behind the work.
Whether leading a product team to develop a new feature set or guiding an organisation through a digital transformation, a well-defined vision is crucial. It serves as the North Star that everyone can look towards, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the ultimate goal.
But simply having a vision isn’t enough. Without a concrete plan to achieve it, even the best ideas can fall flat. This is where “working small” comes into play.
The Power of “Working Small”
Breaking down a big vision into smaller, actionable steps is the key to making consistent progress. It involves identifying the critical milestones required to achieve the vision and then setting clear, short-term goals that lead towards these milestones. This approach not only makes large projects more manageable but also helps maintain momentum and motivation.
Here are a few strategies that have helped me implement the “Think Big, Work Small” approach effectively:
1. Define the Vision Clearly
Establish a compelling vision that outlines what success looks like. This ensures that everyone understands the desired outcome and is motivated to contribute towards it.
2. Break Down the Vision into Milestones
Identify the key steps needed to realise the vision. Map out a clear, step-by-step plan with specific milestones that mark progress towards the end goal.
3. Prioritise Quick Wins
Look for actions that can deliver immediate value. These quick wins help build confidence and demonstrate progress to stakeholders, creating a positive feedback loop.
4. Embrace a Continuous Feedback Loop
Regularly review and adjust the plan based on what’s working and what isn’t. This keeps the project on track and ensures that the team can respond to changes and new information as it becomes available.
5. Empower Teams
Give teams the autonomy to innovate and experiment within the framework of the larger vision. This encourages ownership and can lead to unexpected breakthroughs, as teams feel more engaged and invested in the process.
Real-World Application
I’ve applied this approach across various organisations, whether building a new digital product or leading a large-scale technology transformation. One particular instance was during my time at 101 Ways, where we were tasked with delivering a complex e-commerce platform for a major retailer.
The project had ambitious goals, but the sheer scope of the work made it daunting. By breaking the project into smaller phases – focusing first on establishing a robust platform, then gradually introducing additional features – we were able to deliver tangible results at each stage. This approach kept stakeholders engaged, the team focused, and ultimately led to the successful delivery of the project.
Another example is my experience at Climate Impact Partners, where we aimed to enhance digital experiences for our clients while driving innovation and aligning digital initiatives with broader corporate goals. By breaking this larger vision into specific initiatives and achievable targets, we managed to introduce impactful changes in a relatively short period of time.
Why This Approach Works
“Thinking Big” provides the ambition and motivation needed to pursue transformative goals. But without the discipline to “Work Small,” projects can become overwhelming, and even the best-laid plans can fall apart. By focusing on small, incremental steps, you can ensure steady progress and maintain the flexibility to adapt to new challenges as they arise.
This approach also fosters a culture of continuous improvement. By celebrating small wins and regularly reviewing what’s working and what isn’t, teams can learn and adapt more effectively, building a strong foundation for long-term success.
How You Can Apply This Principle
If you’re looking to apply this principle in your organisation, start by defining a clear, inspiring vision. Then, break it down into specific, achievable steps. Encourage your teams to focus on delivering small wins and use regular feedback to refine your approach.
Are you grappling with a complex vision and struggling to turn it into reality? Let’s connect. I’m always up for a conversation on how we can break down big ideas into actionable steps.
