Which type of strategy arises from unplanned initiatives by mid-level employees?

Emergent strategy is characterized by unplanned initiatives that arise from mid-level employees or even lower organizational levels in response to real-time challenges and opportunities in their environment. This type of strategy develops organically rather than being formally designed and announced from the top down. It often reflects how employees adapt and respond to unexpected changes in the market or operational context.

Emergent strategies are especially relevant in dynamic environments where flexibility and responsiveness are crucial, allowing organizations to leverage insights and innovations that might not have been anticipated at the strategic planning stage. By recognizing the value of these grassroots initiatives, companies can adapt their strategies to become more relevant and effective in practice.

In contrast, intended strategy typically refers to deliberate plans developed by top management, while unrealized strategies denote those that were planned but not implemented. Strategic initiatives generally refer to specific projects or programs aimed at achieving strategic objectives but do not capture the spontaneous, organic nature described by emergent strategies.