The Power of Frameworks
TL;DR Waxing poetic about solution frameworks and how they can make your book better.
Today’s entry brought to you by a 24 degree temperature swing over 24 hours.
This morning, I got some edits back from my current client. He’s having fun making my template copy his own, and he’s doing a great job. It’s been a while since I’ve had a writing client and so I’m reminded of the need to study his word choices, rhythm, and cadence and be more surgical with my edits in a way that doesn’t destroy or dilute that. It’s a good exercise as restraint is generally not my strong suit.
Another cool feature of this book is that we are working together to create a framework for it as we’re developing the content. I love frameworks because they just make the book so much easier to write and the content flows logically and no key criteria are left out.
OK, HB, what’s a framework? So glad you asked.
A framework is a structured approach to analyzing and solving problems. Many consultants develop frameworks to more easily communicate what their problem solving approach is and reassure clients that the process being offered up is proven and repeatable.
When it comes to a book, a framework is a critical tool. The process of developing a framework ensures you are communicating the entire solution to the reader and it provides a rock solid foundation for the book both for content and sequencing.
For example, a book I worked on (1st ed.) “The AI Marketing Canvas: A Five-Stage Road Map for Implementing Artificial Intelligence in Marketing” by Raj Venkatesan and Jim Lecinski, offers a structured approach—aka framework—marketing leaders can use to implement AI in marketing.
Another book I worked on, The 7-Power Contractor by Al Levi lays out seven key “powers” contractors need to run their business with less stress and more success. In this case, it’s a seven-stage framework beginning with planning, operating, financial, staffing, coaching, sales and marketing. Each power has specific things the contractor needs to do for mastery. (Caveat: Al also says you don’t have to be a 10 at all seven, you just can’t be a zero!)
If you are consulting, I guarantee you that there are repeatable processes underpinning your approach. Creating a framework is just a matter of bringing those to the fore.
