📌 TOM vs. Current State Gaps Summary
TOM stands for Target Operating Model, which describes how a business wants to operate in the future. The current state is how things work today. The gap between the TOM and the current state highlights what needs to change in order to reach the desired future way of working. Identifying these gaps helps organisations plan improvements and manage change more effectively.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain TOM vs. Current State Gaps Simply
Imagine you have a map showing where you are now and another map showing where you want to go. The difference between the two maps is the gap you need to cross. In business, TOM vs. current state gaps help you see what needs to be fixed or improved to get from your current way of doing things to your ideal way.
📅 How Can it be used?
Analysing TOM vs. current state gaps helps teams identify and plan necessary changes for successful project delivery.
🗺️ Real World Examples
A retail company wants to introduce online shopping but currently only sells in physical stores. By comparing their TOM, which includes digital sales, with their current state, they can identify gaps like missing technology, new staff skills, and updated processes that need to be addressed.
A hospital aims to reduce patient wait times by implementing a new appointment system. By mapping the TOM with shorter wait times against the current state, they see gaps such as outdated booking software and staff training needs, allowing them to plan targeted improvements.
✅ FAQ
What does it mean to compare the Target Operating Model with the current way we work?
Comparing the Target Operating Model with the current way of working is a bit like looking at a map to see how far you need to travel to reach your destination. The Target Operating Model describes how you want your business to run in the future, while the current state shows how things are done now. By looking at the differences, you can figure out what needs to change so you can plan the best route to your ideal future.
Why is it important to identify gaps between how we work now and our future goals?
Spotting the gaps between your current way of working and your future goals helps you focus your efforts where they are needed most. It means you can avoid wasting time on things that are already working well and instead put your energy into the areas that need improvement. This makes change feel more manageable and helps everyone understand what steps are needed to move forward.
How can understanding these gaps help with making changes in an organisation?
Understanding the gaps gives you a clear picture of what needs to improve, making it easier to set priorities and plan for change. It helps you break down big challenges into smaller, more achievable steps. This way, people in the organisation can see progress as it happens, which builds confidence and keeps everyone motivated to keep moving towards the future vision.
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