COMPEL Glossary / initiative-sequencing
Initiative Sequencing
Initiative sequencing is the strategic ordering of transformation activities based on dependencies between initiatives, organizational readiness and absorption capacity, quick-win opportunity timing, resource availability, regulatory deadlines, and the compounding value that certain foundational capabilities provide to subsequent initiatives.
What this means in practice
Poor sequencing is one of the most common causes of transformation failure, causing organizations to attempt changes that depend on capabilities not yet built, overwhelming the organization with too much simultaneous change, or missing critical quick wins that build momentum. In COMPEL, initiative sequencing is a core roadmap design skill covered in Module 2.3, Article 3, where the AITP uses dependency analysis, procurement-aware scheduling, and the change capacity filter to determine the optimal order of transformation activities.
Why it matters
Poor sequencing is one of the most common causes of transformation failure. Attempting changes that depend on capabilities not yet built, overwhelming the organization with simultaneous change, or missing quick wins that build momentum all result from inadequate sequencing. Strategic ordering based on dependencies, absorption capacity, and compounding value ensures each initiative builds on prior work and the organization can sustain the pace of change.
How COMPEL uses it
Initiative sequencing is a core roadmap design skill covered in Module 2.3, Article 3. During Model, the AITP uses dependency analysis, procurement-aware scheduling, and the change capacity filter to determine optimal ordering. Quick wins are sequenced early to build momentum and stakeholder confidence. Foundation-building initiatives are sequenced before the use cases that depend on them, preventing the common failure of starting development before infrastructure exists.
Related articles in the Body of Knowledge
Related Terms
Other glossary terms mentioned in this entry's definition and context.