The MD at Daily Mart is of opinion, that Strategy is one among the 7 elements of 7S framework that is core to all remaining elements of 7S and Hard…

All the elements of 7S framework have equal importance, while shared values are core to rest of elements. Hard and Soft S are different from each other only in respect to identification and influence that can be exercised by the management. Strategy, Structure, and Systems are feasible and easy to identify. These can be found in strategy statements, corporate plans, organizational charts and other documentations. They are easier to change than the others. Therefore, called hard S elements. While Skills, Staff, Style, and Shared Values are not change-feasible. These are harder to describe since capabilities, values and elements of corporate culture are continuously developing and changing. They are highly determined by the people at work in the organization. Hence these are harder to change directly, and typically take longer to do so. Therefore, called soft S elements. Effective companies tend to pay equal attention to these soft S factors as much as they pay to the hard S's. Hence Daily Mart advised to focus on all the 7Ss.