In today’s business world, getting timely decisions is critical to success. A Strategy on a Page (SOAP) is not just a planning tool – it’s your secret weapon for driving clear, swift decisions. Let’s explore how to create a SOAP that gets results.
The Power of SOAP
A well-crafted SOAP does one thing exceptionally well: it drives decisions. By presenting information clearly and concisely, it enables decision-makers to:
- Quickly grasp the key issues
- Understand the context
- Make informed choices
- Commit to action
The Four Essential Components of SOAP
Purpose Statement
This is your “why.” Start with a clear, single-sentence statement that answers:
- What decision needs to be made?
- Why is it needed now?
- What will be different after the decision?
Example: “This paper seeks approval for a £2M investment in our digital platform to prevent system obsolescence and enable 20% growth in online sales by 2025.”
Background & Context
Present only the most relevant facts that support decision-making:
- Key market data
- Current performance metrics
- Critical business context
- Relevant history
Keep it brief – if it doesn’t directly inform the decision, leave it out.
Decision Focus
Clearly articulate:
- What specifically needs to be decided
- The scope of the decision
- Key considerations
- Dependencies or constraints
- Risks and assumptions
Recommendation
This is where you land the plane. Include:
- Your clear recommendation
- 2-3 options considered (if relevant)
- Key benefits of your recommended approach
- Specific next steps
- Required resources or support
- Timeline for implementation
Making Your SOAP Drive Decisions
Best Practices:
Be Brutally Concise
- One page maximum
- Use bullet points
- Avoid jargon
- Focus on what matters most
Make it Scannable
- Use clear headings
- Highlight key numbers
- Include a simple visual if it adds value
- Use white space effectively
Focus on Action
- Be specific about what’s needed
- Make the decision clear
- Outline concrete next steps
- Include timing and ownership
Common SOAP Mistakes to Avoid
Information Overload
- Including too much background
- Presenting multiple decisions
- Adding unnecessary detail
Unclear Ask
- Vague recommendations
- Multiple decision points
- Unclear next steps
Missing Context
- Not explaining why now
- Failing to show impact
- Omitting key risks
Implementation Tips
Pre-wire Key Stakeholders
- Share drafts with key influencers
- Address concerns early
- Build support before formal presentation
Focus on Timing
- Submit your SOAP when decision-makers can act
- Be clear about deadlines
- Have a plan for follow-up
Prepare for Questions
- Anticipate challenges
- Have backup data ready
- Know your bottom line
Conclusion
A successful SOAP is measured by one metric: did it drive a decision? By following this structure and focusing relentlessly on what decision-makers need to know, you’ll create SOAPs that drive action and deliver results.
Remember: every word on your SOAP should serve the ultimate goal of getting to a clear decision. If it doesn’t support that goal, it doesn’t belong on the page.
