8. Key Channels Framework

The principles of flowing stream strategy, as discussed in the previous chapter, have led to identification of key strategic channels that would be guided by these principles. The definition of these key channels is rooted into an inductive longitudinal study of a number of leading global organizations (with particular reference to Indian context) that have implicitly utilized such channels in some form or the other to evolve as flowing streams; some sample case studies are discussed in Part V. The study has indicated a fragmented use of these strategic channels at different stages of flow of enterprises. These key channels would provide strategic flexibility mechanisms of balancing continuity and change forces in a dynamic manner and can be treated as building blocks of flowing stream strategic thinking. In this chapter, the framework of flowing stream strategy based on its key channels is portrayed, which would be utilized to formulate golden strategies for a flowing stream in the next chapter.