Implementation of Strategic Metrics and Action Plans: A Finnish Case Study on Practical Execution

Abstract

This study examines how a strategic action plan and performance measurement system can be developed and implemented in practice within a Finnish industrial SME. The study is based on a qualitative case study of a strategy renewal and performance measurement process conducted during 2024–2026. The empirical material consists of internal strategy documents, performance measurement materials, action-planning documents, meeting discussions and observations from the development process. In the case organisation, a strategy defining the organisation’s long-term goals was formulated, followed by the development of a performance measurement system to translate these goals into measurable indicators. The system enables systematic monitoring of strategy implementation, identification of deviations and timely corrective actions. The action plan defined responsibilities, schedules and required resources, ensuring alignment between strategic objectives and daily operations. The findings highlight the importance of clarifying the purpose of measurement, standardising concepts, assigning ownership of indicators, piloting reporting practices and using feedback to refine the system. The study contributes to the discussion on strategy implementation and governance by illustrating how performance measurement systems and action planning support strategic alignment, accountability and managerial follow-up in a real-life environment. It also addresses the ECMLG themes of strategic management and governance by examining how strategic objectives are translated into measurable performance indicators and concrete operational actions. As a single-case study, the findings are context-specific and should not be interpreted as statistically generalisable; however, they provide practical insight into how to strengthen strategy execution through structured performance measurement and action planning.