Acceleration

What does Acceleration mean?

Growth can be as varied as those who define it.  It might take the form of geographic expansion, the introduction of new products, an expanded workforce, integration of supply and distribution chains, innovation, and more.  In most of these forms, growth typically involves an increase in sales.

Like the ideation stage, making sales – again and again, or at increasing volumes – can be exciting. But at some point, the sales process becomes organized, refined, delegated, and even automated.  In many cases, growth is organic, emerging from consistent and successful sales efforts. Sale after sale, the organization learns to manage and scale this repetition.

Acceleration, however, is not simply growth through repetition. Instead, it is a deliberate effort to alter the organic process in order to dramatically increase the pace of growth. This might mean rapidly expanding the sales force, aggressively opening new geographical locations, or acquiring a synergistic competitor.  In other words, acceleration is an intentional, high-intensity push to amplify activity.

How do I know when I’m finished with the Acceleration stage?

Acceleration is planned and defined, organized and managed – and, at some point, measured and evaluated for success.  By design, Acceleration includes a measurable goal, usually introduced during the initial planning phase and refined throughout the process as unforeseen challenges arise. The Acceleration stage always has an end goal in mind, and understanding that goal helps answer the question of when you are done.  

The goal might be to go public, prepare the business for a sale or acquisition, or realize a new vision brought by incoming management through succession. It could also result from a strategic shift – such as a small business deciding to become a franchise. Whatever the reason, the outcome is typically transformative – and often makes for a great story.

Who should use our services?

During the Acceleration stage, many previously outsourced activities are brought in-house. Acceleration often comes with funding, allowing the company to add skilled professionals to their full-time staff. This phase must be carefully managed, as intellectual property and competitive strategy are valuable assets. Insourcing also fosters greater accountability and a deeper understanding of the business among employees.  

Our team helps manage these critical transitions.