From classic strategy to the strategy as practice: an analysis of the concepts of strategy and strategists

Abstract

This theoretical essay aimed to analyze the concepts of strategy and strategists according to different approaches: classical, evolutionary, procedural, systemic and strategy as practice. It has been identified that the concept of strategy varies between approaches in relation to aspects such as theoretical influences, strategy concept, purpose of strategy, protagonists, strategic process, formation of strategies, deadline for implementation and levels of analysis. The concept of strategist changes in relation to the hierarchical position, level of rationality, role and performance. Regarding the temporality, formalization and rationality it is important to note that in an evolutionary perspective, there is a major emphasis on the short-term limited decisions, whereas in the classic one the strategy is constituted in the long-term, with total availability of rationality. The level of analysis can direct the scope of the research, considering that in the perspective of the strategy as practice, it will not be limited to the narrative of the high-level manager and it will be necessary to explore the contribution of everyone involved in the process of making strategy. On the other hand, a revolutionary view needs to explore the macroeconomic reality as a diagnostic for the strategic formulation. It is possible to conclude that the concepts of strategy and strategist according to each approach have different implications for the performance of researchers, teachers and managers.