Conceptual design of an organisational capability

Abstract

This study is intended as a guideline for enterprise designers in developing a conceptual design for an enterprise. It follows a system engineering approach and promotes top down design of enterprises viewed as systems. Enterprises are examined as systems and their functioning analysed within their own boundaries, as well as within their operating and resource environments. The capability responsible for designing the enterprise is also considered. The reader gets an overview of a generic development process to place conceptual design in context with the enterprise life cycle. Strategic design is shown to be the conceptual design of an enterprise. The bulk of the dissertation addresses the process of establishing the conceptual design commencing with the charter for enterprise engineering i.e. the causes, expected results and impacts. Requirements for the enterprise are established from the enterprise leaders in terms of the strategic intent for the enterprise, which include the strategic drivers and its vision, mission and driving force. The current enterprise is analysed to establish constraints arising from the existing enterprise. Various positioning options are discussed as sources of strategic alternatives. Approaches to analyse market opportunities, organisational capabilities and constraints are given as input to establish the scenarios for which the enterprise design must cater. The development of a single alternative high-level enterprise implementation is covered in terms of the value delivered, capabilities required in the enterprise and resource requirements. Alternative development approaches and the selection of one is discussed. Finally, the design of a competency concept, the synthesis of design in a grand strategy, structural architecture, cultural architecture and plan to align resources with the design is discussed. In conclusion some proposals for the extension and enhancement of this guide are made.