Hoshin Kanri, also called policy or strategy deployment, is a method for focusing an organization on a few breakthrough objectives and making sure every level knows how it contributes. The X-Matrix is the one-page tool that holds it together.
The four quadrants of the X-Matrix
- Long-term breakthrough objectives (three to five years)
- Annual objectives that move toward them
- Top-level improvement initiatives
- Measures and targets that show progress
Correlation dots show which items support which, and the right side names the owners.
Catchball
Plans are not handed down. Each level discusses the objectives with the level below — the "catchball" — until targets and initiatives are realistic and owned.
The review rhythm
- Monthly reviews of measures and initiatives
- Countermeasures when results are off track
- A yearly reflection that sets the next cycle
Hoshin and OKRs
OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) use the same idea of few objectives with measurable results, usually on a quarterly cycle. Many organizations use Hoshin for the annual and multi-year frame and OKRs for team-level quarterly goals.
