FOCISS: A framework for developing a sustainable buisiness strategy

Most companies find it difficult to integrate sustainability in their business strategy in such way that it will \u84pay off?. Sustainability with its opportunities and challenges are not understood in its real meaning for their business. A major factor is that a distinction in essential and non-essential (and even irrelevant) issues for the core business is not made. Sustainability often seems tedious and somewhat unprofitable and therefore is taken up reluctantly just because it \u84should? and is \u84good? in an rather abstract manner. So sustainable actions selected are often \u84generic?, based on standard approaches and broad \u84sustainability philosophies?, instead of on an analysis of the companies specific own situation, ambition and strategy. We have developed an approach that helps to determine real core business related sustainability issues for an individual company. It provides a clearer focus and a better understanding of the importance of sustainability. Through that it also generates stronger internal commitment and more effective implementation. This so-called Fociss approach (focussing innovation for a sustainable strategy) starts with the actual role a company and its products have in society and economy and the changes that will occur. It is a stepwise narrowing down on theme?s, issues, sensible innovations and priorities which must then be the core of a company?s future aimed strategy for taking part in the sustainable transitions that will occur. The approach gives a very practical and strategic insight into sustainable business management issues. It forms therefore a perfect framework to train students in effective sustainable business management and innovation