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Strategic Operating-Model Design for Cross-Functional Programs

$199.00
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A tailored course, built for your situation

Strategic Operating-Model Design for Cross-Functional Programs

Build scalable, aligned operating models that power complex, cross-team initiatives from concept to execution

$199 one-time
24-hour access provisioning 30-day money-back guarantee Hand-built implementation playbook
12 modules. 12 chapters per module. 144 chapters total.
12 modules, each with 12 chapters (144 chapters total), text-based, plus downloadable templates and a hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.
Cross-functional programs fail most often not from lack of talent, but from unclear operating models

The situation this course is for

Even well-resourced initiatives stall when roles, decisions, and workflows aren't intentionally designed. Misalignment across functions creates delays, duplication, and eroded trust. Without a shared operating model, teams default to ad hoc coordination, reactive firefighting, and inconsistent outcomes.

Who this is for

Business transformation leads, program managers, operating executives, and technology strategists responsible for delivering results across siloed functions

Who this is not for

Individual contributors not involved in cross-team coordination, or leaders focused only on single-department optimization

What you walk away with

  • Design a clear, scalable operating model tailored to your program’s scope and stakeholders
  • Define decision rights and escalation paths that prevent bottlenecks
  • Integrate workflow cadences across functions without overburdening teams
  • Implement performance feedback loops that enable continuous adaptation
  • Apply governance frameworks that balance agility with compliance and risk controls

The 12 modules (with all 144 chapters)

Module 1. Foundations of Cross-Functional Operating Models
Understand the core components and strategic value of intentional operating models
12 chapters in this module
  1. Defining the operating model in a program context
  2. The evolution of cross-functional delivery
  3. Core dimensions: structure, process, people, technology
  4. Strategic alignment vs operational execution
  5. Common failure patterns and root causes
  6. Case study: Global product launch operating model
  7. Assessing organizational readiness
  8. Stakeholder mapping for operating model design
  9. Operating model lifecycle phases
  10. Balancing centralization and autonomy
  11. Measuring operating model maturity
  12. Design principles for adaptability
Module 2. Governance Architecture and Decision Rights
Design clear governance structures that enable speed and accountability
12 chapters in this module
  1. Principles of effective program governance
  2. Designing tiered governance forums
  3. Mapping decision types and ownership
  4. RACI alternatives for dynamic environments
  5. Escalation protocols and conflict resolution
  6. Integrating compliance into governance flows
  7. Balancing speed and oversight
  8. Facilitation techniques for governance meetings
  9. Documenting and socializing governance rules
  10. Adjusting governance for program phase
  11. Measuring governance effectiveness
  12. Case study: Merging IT and operations governance
Module 3. Role Clarity and Cross-Functional Accountability
Eliminate ambiguity in responsibilities across teams and functions
12 chapters in this module
  1. Defining cross-functional roles with precision
  2. Designing hybrid role structures
  3. Accountability frameworks beyond RACI
  4. Managing dual reporting relationships
  5. Clarifying boundaries between functions
  6. Onboarding roles into the operating model
  7. Handling role conflict and overlap
  8. Performance indicators for cross-functional roles
  9. Role evolution across program lifecycle
  10. Integrating external partners and vendors
  11. Tools for visualizing role networks
  12. Case study: Launching a global transformation office
Module 4. Workflow Integration and Process Orchestration
Synchronize activities across functions without creating bureaucracy
12 chapters in this module
  1. Mapping interdependent workflows
  2. Identifying integration points and handoffs
  3. Designing lightweight coordination rituals
  4. Synchronizing planning cycles across functions
  5. Integrating agile and waterfall approaches
  6. Managing dependencies and critical paths
  7. Tools for workflow visualization
  8. Automating status updates and reporting
  9. Reducing coordination overhead
  10. Handling exceptions and rework loops
  11. Aligning incentives across workflow stages
  12. Case study: Integrating marketing and sales launch plans
Module 5. Cadence Design and Rhythm of Execution
Establish predictable, adaptive rhythms that keep teams aligned
12 chapters in this module
  1. Principles of effective meeting design
  2. Designing cross-functional cadences
  3. Aligning planning, review, and retrospective rhythms
  4. Timeboxing and agenda discipline
  5. Balancing frequency and fatigue
  6. Integrating data into review cycles
  7. Remote and hybrid cadence best practices
  8. Role of dashboards in execution rhythm
  9. Adjusting cadence by program phase
  10. Measuring cadence effectiveness
  11. Facilitation skills for cross-functional meetings
  12. Case study: Quarterly business review redesign
Module 6. Performance Measurement and Feedback Loops
Build in continuous learning and adaptation mechanisms
12 chapters in this module
  1. Designing KPIs for cross-functional success
  2. Leading vs lagging indicators in complex programs
  3. Balancing outcome and output metrics
  4. Creating fast feedback channels
  5. Integrating qualitative insights into measurement
  6. Avoiding metric overload and gaming
  7. Visualizing performance across functions
  8. Using data for course correction
  9. Feedback loops for process improvement
  10. Adapting metrics as goals evolve
  11. Reporting up to governance bodies
  12. Case study: Redesigning a digital transformation dashboard
Module 7. Change Adoption and Operating Model Enablement
Drive uptake and sustained use of the new operating model
12 chapters in this module
  1. Assessing change readiness across functions
  2. Designing targeted communication plans
  3. Engaging influencers and champions
  4. Training strategies for operating model fluency
  5. Addressing resistance and skepticism
  6. Reinforcing behaviors through recognition
  7. Linking operating model to performance management
  8. Onboarding new members into the model
  9. Sustaining adoption beyond launch
  10. Measuring change effectiveness
  11. Iterating based on adoption feedback
  12. Case study: Rolling out a new operating model in finance and HR
Module 8. Technology Enablement and Tool Alignment
Align platforms and tools to support operating model workflows
12 chapters in this module
  1. Assessing tooling gaps in cross-functional work
  2. Selecting platforms for collaboration and visibility
  3. Integrating project and program management tools
  4. Data sharing and access control across functions
  5. Standardizing templates and artifacts
  6. Avoiding tool sprawl and redundancy
  7. Configuring tools to reflect governance rules
  8. Automating routine coordination tasks
  9. Ensuring mobile and remote access
  10. Measuring tool effectiveness
  11. Managing tool transitions and training
  12. Case study: Unifying CRM and ERP workflows
Module 9. Risk, Compliance, and Control Integration
Embed risk and compliance into the operating model without slowing delivery
12 chapters in this module
  1. Mapping regulatory requirements to workflows
  2. Designing control points into processes
  3. Integrating risk assessment into planning
  4. Ensuring audit readiness across functions
  5. Balancing innovation and compliance
  6. Role of legal and compliance teams in governance
  7. Documenting decisions and rationale
  8. Managing data privacy across boundaries
  9. Third-party risk in cross-functional programs
  10. Reporting compliance status to leadership
  11. Adapting controls for program phase
  12. Case study: GDPR alignment in a global rollout
Module 10. Scaling Operating Models Across Programs
Replicate and adapt successful models across multiple initiatives
12 chapters in this module
  1. Identifying reusable operating model components
  2. Creating a playbook for model replication
  3. Customizing models for different contexts
  4. Managing consistency vs flexibility
  5. Building a center of excellence
  6. Sharing lessons across programs
  7. Standardizing metrics and reporting
  8. Training operating model designers
  9. Governance for model evolution
  10. Technology support for scaling
  11. Measuring reuse success
  12. Case study: Scaling a product launch model across regions
Module 11. Operating Model Evolution and Adaptation
Design models that evolve with changing goals and conditions
12 chapters in this module
  1. Monitoring signals for model adjustment
  2. Designing for phase transitions
  3. Rebalancing roles and governance over time
  4. Handling organizational restructuring
  5. Adapting to new technology or market shifts
  6. Refreshing cadences and workflows
  7. Incorporating stakeholder feedback
  8. Managing model debt
  9. When to sunset an operating model
  10. Planning for next-generation models
  11. Tools for model iteration
  12. Case study: Evolving an operating model post-merger
Module 12. Implementation and Real-World Application
Apply the full framework to design and launch a working operating model
12 chapters in this module
  1. Assessing current state operating practices
  2. Defining future state vision and goals
  3. Engaging stakeholders in co-design
  4. Prioritizing model components for rollout
  5. Creating an implementation roadmap
  6. Piloting and testing the model
  7. Gathering early feedback
  8. Adjusting based on pilot results
  9. Full rollout planning
  10. Sustaining and improving the model
  11. Documenting lessons learned
  12. Celebrating success and reinforcing adoption

How this maps to your situation

  • Launching a new cross-functional initiative
  • Scaling a proven program across regions or teams
  • Fixing a stalled or misaligned program
  • Integrating operations after a merger or restructuring

Before vs. after

Before
Initiatives rely on ad hoc coordination, individual heroics, and reactive problem-solving, leading to inconsistent results and team burnout.
After
Programs operate with clear governance, defined roles, and integrated workflows, enabling predictable delivery and scalable impact.

What's included with your purchase

  • 12 modules with 12 chapters each (144 chapters)
  • Downloadable templates and worked examples for every module
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Delivery and format

  • Course and learning environment access provisioned within 24 hours of purchase
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access

Format: Text-based modules and chapters in the Art of Service learning environment, plus downloadable templates and worked examples for every chapter, plus the hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.

Time investment: Approximately 45, 60 hours of self-paced learning, designed to be applied incrementally to active programs.

If nothing changes
Without a deliberate operating model, even well-funded programs risk misalignment, delayed outcomes, and wasted resources, especially as complexity and stakeholder expectations grow.

How this compares to the alternatives

Unlike generic project management courses or high-level strategy frameworks, this course delivers implementation-grade tools specifically for designing and operating cross-functional programs, with templates and playbooks used in enterprise-scale transformations.

Frequently asked

Who is this course designed for?
It's for business and technology professionals leading or enabling complex, cross-functional programs, such as transformation leads, program managers, operating executives, and technology strategists.
How is the course structured?
12 modules, each containing 12 chapters (144 chapters total).
Is there a certificate upon completion?
Yes, a certificate of completion is issued after finishing all modules and passing the final assessment.
$199 one-time. Approximately 45, 60 hours of self-paced learning, designed to be applied incrementally to active programs..

Within 24 hours your account in the learning environment is provisioned and the tailored implementation playbook is delivered alongside it.

30-day money-back guarantee· 144 chapters· Hand-built playbook included· Account access within 24 hours