The Central Pillar and Crossbeam of the Caplor House can be useful in understanding how to strategise and influence.

The Central Pillar: Strategy

In the Caplor House, the structure of the Roof is supported by a central pillar of strategy. From strategy development at the top, to strategy implementation at the bottom, the pillar is a constant reminder that strategy is, in reality, a top-down and bottom-up process, one that is deliberate and yet responsive to change at the same time. The central pillar represents the informed choices we make about what we will do to achieve our vision and goals and how we will do this.

In order to develop a new strategy, we need to bring together thinking and activity from the two upper rooms of the Caplor House: the Library and the Observatory.

Strategy, once developed, must be delivered by people. In order to empower people to take the responsibility of implementing strategy, leaders need to ensure that they are well supported and resourced and capable with the capability to achieve the targets they have been set. Thus, delivering a strategy occurs in the Kitchen and Family Room.

The Crossbeam: Influence

The crossbeam that runs from right to left in the centre of the house is influence. Influence is a combination of multiple factors, all related to encouraging others to “go with you” in your desired direction.

Influencing often starts in the left-hand side of the Caplor House: the Library and the Kitchen. It requires you to gather evidence, both through research and through practice.

However, the most important part of influencing is gaining commitment. It is about ensuring not only that people will follow your lead but that they will do so willingly and with commitment. Therefore, in order to influence effectively, we need to bring together activity from the two right-hand side rooms of the Caplor House: the Observatory and the Family Room. In the Observatory you can inspire people with a vision of a transformed future, and in the Family Room you can engage and connect with people through sharing stories and influencing their hearts and minds.