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In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, host Mark Baldino speaks with Harry Max, author of the book "Managing Priorities: How to Create Better Plans and Make Smarter Decisions". We discussion the importance of intentional prioritization, particularly in complex organizational settings. Harry explains that while many people think they are good at prioritizing, most struggle when faced with dynamic and adaptive environments. He introduces his DEGAP process model (Decide, Engage, Gather, Arrange, Prioritize), which offers a structured approach to prioritization, ensuring that decisions are made based on the best possible options. The conversation also touches on the challenges of gaining team and organizational alignment and the significance of making prioritization a deliberate and strategic activity.

Key Takeaways:

• Prioritization Needs Intentionality: Successful prioritization requires a structured approach, especially in complex organizational settings.
• DEGAP Process Model: The DEGAP model (Decide, Engage, Gather, Arrange, Prioritize) provides a comprehensive framework for effective prioritization.
• Importance of Strategic Alignment: Aligning teams and gaining executive support are crucial for the success of any prioritization effort.
• Recognizing the Need to Prioritize: The first step is deciding whether prioritization is necessary in a given situation, considering the potential benefits and risks.
• Prioritization as a Skill: While people may be good at prioritization in simple environments, complex settings require more refined methods and tools.
• Outputs vs. Results: Focus on achieving better results by selecting the best possible options rather than just prioritizing tasks.
• Avoiding Pitfalls: Without intentional prioritization, organizations risk making decisions that do not align with their strategic goals, leading to inefficiencies.
• Scalability of Prioritization: Effective prioritization processes can scale from individual teams to entire organizations.
• Designing for Flexibility: The prioritization process should be adaptable to different contexts, stakeholders, and organizational needs.
• Building Consensus: Engaging all relevant stakeholders in the prioritization process ensures that the outcomes are understood and supported across the organization.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 05:19 The Importance of Prioritization
• 11:39 Prioritizing Prioritization
• 19:43 The DEGAP Process Model
• 22:19 Aligning Teams and Achieving Organizational Success
• 29:23 Gaining Executive Alignment and Getting Traction

Links:

• 20% Discount Code to Buy the book "Get the book - Managing Priorities: How to Create Better Plans and Make Smarter Decisions".  Use Code "UXLBD" during checkout at: https://rosenfeldmedia.com/books/managing-priorities
• Hary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrymax
• harrymax.com

• Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
• Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy