About
Description
STEEP is, at its most basic level, a taxonomy for scanning the contextual, external environment (Societal, Technological, Economic, Environmental and Political areas). Its application as a tool, even at this level is far-reaching. Often, STEEP is the initial analysis that departs from studying information which is near, immediate, controllable and organisational. External issues are, by definition, those that are acting on, or influencing our situation.
STEEP is invaluable as a tool for connecting the strategy and futures processes. It is widely known, readily accepted as a tool by both communities and needs only basic expertise. It can be preceded by recognised strategy tools like Five forces, SWOT, Market attractiveness grids and value chain analysis. It complements a number of futures tools, including horizon scanning and abstracts. Finally, it is the basis for many onward futures activities and discussions.
Strategy tools
Exploring corporate strategy by Gerry Johnson and Kevan Scholes provides explanations and practical usage of a vast number of strategy tools.
Applying STEEP enlivens scanning activities and helps them to be more exhaustive by providing a checklist of broad areas to address. Scanning without STEEP is generally more passive in nature. The sketch below illustrates how a regular, STEEP-structured scanning activity can prepare a strategy team.
