Phases & Loopback FAQ
Audience: Strategy Manager, Admin
Page Type: FAQ
Phase Flow
Q: Can I skip phases? A: No, must be done sequentially (PHASE 1→2→3→4)
Q: How long does a phase take? A:
- PHASE 1: 2-3 weeks
- PHASE 2: 2-4 weeks
- PHASE 3: 2-3 weeks
- PHASE 4: 9-10 months
- Total: ~3 months planning + 9 months execution
Q: Can I exit a PHASE? A: Yes, there is loopback (PHASE 2 major resource gaps, PHASE 3 negative assessment)
Feedback Loops
Q: PHASE 2 shows a major resource gap, what should I do? A: Return to PHASE 1 → Revise Vision/assumptions → Repeat PHASE 2
Q: I got a negative assessment in PHASE 3? A: Return to PHASE 1 → Revise Vision (more realistic) → Repeat PHASE 2, 3
Q: How many times can I loop back? A: Unlimited (normal process)
Q: Is loopback a mistake? A: No, it's a learning cycle. It functions as a reality check.
Phase Transitions
Q: What should I check when moving from PHASE 1 to PHASE 2? A:
- Mission & Vision finalized? ✓
- Org tree complete? ✓
- Users onboarded? ✓
- Cycle created? ✓
Q: Is approval required to move from PHASE 2 to PHASE 3? A: No separate VRIO approval step. Move forward when required PHASE 2 analyses are completed and findings are ready for synthesis.
Q: How is PHASE 3 Assessment determined as positive/negative? A: Is the Gap realistic? (Achievable vs unrealistic)
OKR Timing
Q: When should I create OKRs in PHASE 4? A: Immediately after PHASE 3 positive assessment
Q: Can I change OKRs mid-quarter? A: Edit yes, replace no (for continuity)
Q: Can I reuse OKRs for next quarter? A: Archive + new cycle → refresh OKRs (updated targets)