For many businesses, especially SMEs, survival often takes precedence over strategy. Studies have shown that around 90 per cent of SMEs never develop a formal business strategy, instead relying on short-term, tactical decisions to stay afloat.
While this “hand-to-mouth” approach may keep operations running in the short term, it leaves companies vulnerable to disruption and limits their ability to grow sustainably.
Experts argue that long-term strategic thinking is essential for businesses that want to thrive. This means asking fundamental questions such as: Why are we doing what we are doing? What is our vision and mission? How can we create a sustainable competitive advantage? By addressing these questions, companies can set clear objectives and ensure that day-to-day decisions contribute to a bigger picture. Answers to these questions are developed further through tools for external analysis, such as PESTEL and Porter’s 5 Forces, and internal analysis, such as VRIO, amongst others.
Strategic management also provides the tools to adapt in a constantly changing environment. From shifting market conditions to technological disruption, businesses that adopt forward-looking strategies are better equipped to anticipate challenges, innovate, and maintain their edge. Without a clear strategy, even profitable companies risk stagnation.
Recognising the importance of this shift, Malta Business School introduced the ATHE Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management, a comprehensive programme designed for those ready to move beyond tactical, short‐term decision‐making.
Commencing its 3rd intake in October 2025, the programme is delivered online in the evenings by high-profile tutors with senior management experience, ensuring that participants gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical insights grounded in real-world leadership.
By focusing on strategic planning, financial decision-making, organisational behaviour, and leadership development, the diploma aims to give managers the mindset and skills to steer their organisations toward long-term success.
Ultimately, strategic management is not a luxury reserved for large corporations. It is a necessity for businesses of all sizes that want to move beyond short-term survival and build a resilient, competitive future.
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