Choosing Between Integrators and OBMs

As we navigate the waters of business management, it's all about staying agile and adaptable. With our distinct skills and as our firms grow, it becomes critical to discern between various roles and tactics that can propel your business forward.

If you've been “efforting” in the business realm for some time and growth is consistent year after year,  you're probably realizing that what got you here, will not get you to the next level.  Quite simply, the old playbook won't cut it anymore. This is where the idea of bringing in a second-in-command or delegating certain business aspects comes into play, allowing you to shift your focus and step into the visionary role, as the business architect.

As the principal and perhaps owner of your firm, you are the creative force driving your business, constantly conjuring up new ideas and forging connections. You are passionate, creative and thrive on the adrenaline rush of launching new projects. You are the Visionary in your business.  The problem with being a quick start, is that you just might be stumbling a bit on the follow-through part of the process.  Enter the Integrator.

I first learned these terms when I was introduced to Rocket Fuel, a book by Gino Wickman and Mark C Winters.  It was required reading in my Mastermind group.  The book discusses the roles of the Visionary and the Integrator and how the “power of two” can change your world.  Disney, McDonalds and Ford have all worked in this partnership and it could absolutely be the key to growing your business exponentially. 

Integrators are the backbone of operational excellence. They're the detail-oriented professionals, gurus who breathe life into your visionary ideas, turning them into actionable strategies. Their secret sauce lies in executing plans, fostering collaboration amongst team members, and creating a well-organized machine, where day-to-day operations run smoothly, allowing you to be the rainmaker, connector and work your magic. 

The integrator is your strategic partner in crime, streamlining your workflow, systems, processes, and ultimately, boosting your bottom line. Many smaller firms have harnessed the power of Integrators through systems like EOS- created by the authors of Rocket Fuel, paving the way for seamless collaboration between the visionary and the executor.

Now, let's talk about the Outside Business Managers (OBMs). The OBM, unlike the Integrator, looks at the firm from the outside – in.  They have a bird's eye view of the business landscape and while the Integrator is likely a partner or C-suite player in your internal organization, the OBM comes to the table with impartiality and objectivity.   They can be hired as contract employees on a project basis, work fractionally for a set amount of hours per month and have experience in helping firms by creating innovative solutions, with their ability to apply strategic thinking to each challenge.

They have worked with diverse industries and experiences. This is the person you might call to help you navigate as your business transitions, expands or even to facilitate restructuring.  They are big picture individuals and allow you to see your business through a different lens.

So, what's the difference between Integrators and OBMs? Well, while both are geared towards driving organizational success, their approaches couldn't be more different. Integrators are your in-house conductors - orchestrating the day-to-day symphony of operations, while the OBM operates from a more strategic standpoint, strategically looking at long-term growth and innovation.

In a nutshell, as you grow, you should consider the benefit of aligning with an Integrator or hiring an OBM.  Each brings a special skill set to the table, catering to specific needs and circumstances. Whether you're in need of operational strategy or a reorganization, understanding the strengths of each role is key to moving the needle and guiding your firm towards sustainable growth and success.

If you want to learn more about the roles of Visionaries and Integrators, click HERE to read Rocket Fuel, by Gino Wickman and Mark C Winters.