What do these three things have in common?
Franklin Planners (or, for the OG folks reading this: Day-Timers)
NordicTracks (or treadmills)
EOS plans
I’ve resisted writing a post like this for years - who wants to come across as “the sniper in grassy knoll”? EOS is an awesome methodology; so awesome that we have adopted elements of it not only in our service offering but in the way we run our business (did you know that Patrick is the CSR Integrator?)!
EOS—Entrepreneurial Operating System—when implemented correctly, can be a game-changer. But, just like that planner from decades ago that sits unused (still in the shrink wrap!) or the Nordic Track that became an excellent clothes rack, many businesses get stuck after investing in EOS without fully committing to its implementation.
Why does this happen?
The Case of Unused Tools
We’ve all been there: the best intentions, a strong start, maybe even a little bit of excitement. Whether it’s the new Franklin Planner or that NordicTrack, you make a purchase with a vision in mind. This is going to change things! You’re going to be more organized, healthier, more productive. And for a while, you use it—faithfully even. You map out your days, you log your miles on the treadmill. But slowly, reality sets in. Life gets in the way, and suddenly, the treadmill is gathering dust and your planner is forgotten under a stack of papers.
The same thing happens with EOS.
EOS is a fantastic system. It provides a clear framework for businesses to define their vision, core values, and goals. It also offers tools to track progress and hold people accountable. However, like any system, its success depends on proper implementation, or you're left with just another unused tool. Like that planner still in shrink wrap, an EOS plan can sit on a shelf, gathering dust, even after you and your consultant worked to develop (and that you paid for) .
So what’s my beef?
One of the common issues we’ve observed is that many businesses approach EOS with a lot of initial enthusiasm, only to let the momentum fade once the consultant leaves. The meeting notes and strategic objectives are left behind, becoming another relic of “what could have been.”
Sound familiar?
This is not just about EOS, by the way. It’s a common challenge with any system that requires a significant behavioral shift. You don’t suddenly become more productive just by buying a planner or healthier by owning a treadmill. You have to change your habits, commit to the process, and stay disciplined over time.
Flag a problem, offer a solution
In the spirit of truly being a problem-solver (embracing the ‘S’ of CSR - SOLUTIONS), allow me to offer an obvious solution: spend the money to get the help you need to implement it! One of the biggest challenges with EOS is that it can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. It requires a significant commitment from the leadership team and can be difficult to maintain over time. Additionally, if the implementation is not done correctly, the system can become ineffective or even counterproductive. Some organizations task their internal resources (how? were these folks sitting around not busy?) with the implementation.
I guess that’s one way to get it done.
Others, when the EOS consultants come in and facilitate a conversation/session and then leave until the next one, finish the process and then realize that they bought something without considering that it actually needed to be implemented. The initial enthusiasm and momentum fade, and the system becomes a dusty relic. This is often due to a lack of support, guidance, or resources to successfully implement and maintain EOS.
Between 70-90% of organizations try to implement EOS on their own.
Okay, you knew it was coming - here’s the pitch
Self-implemented EOS efforts have a relatively low success rate, frequently quoted at less than 30%. Working alongside a professional for implementation will increase your potential for success.
A key differentiator for us is that we will DO the stuff that is talked about in the meeting and is strategized about. We roll up our sleeves and help you execute. Our strategic planning sessions are concise and focused, designed to fit within your schedule without compromising the depth of the work. But beyond that, we will stick around to ensure that what’s been talked about actually gets done.
We receive feedback from our clients as to how surprised they are by how we can get so much done in a short period of time (for example, one of our flavors of strategic planning is a half-day session) compared to the much lengthier planning with EOS. We'll work with you to develop a customized plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals. We'll also provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure that your EOS system remains effective over the long term.
Recently, I was told that we sound like we are providing an “Integrator as a Service” offering - it’s a mouthful, but it’s accurate.
Make the most of your EOS plan. You’ve invested time and money into it - capitalize on the change that it can offer to you and your business via a comprehensive and robust implementation. Reach out to us today—we’d love to help!
Let’s Get Your EOS Journey on the Right Track
Ready to see how EOS can truly transform your business? Reach out to us today at 404-850-7957 or send us an email at info@expertiseinresults.com.
For a quick and easy way to get started, just fill out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you promptly with a free consultation. Let’s make it happen!
About Author
Alex Muñoz, Principal & Co-owner at CSR, is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in driving strategic growth. Known for challenging norms and fostering significant ROI, Alex's diverse background spans from manufacturing to non-profits.
FAQ's
What is EOS, and how does it benefit businesses?
EOS is a business operating system designed to help companies clarify their vision, set strategic goals, and improve team accountability.
Why does EOS fail in some companies?
How can CSR help with EOS implementation?
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