The Impact Filter

One of my favorite strategic tools of the past two years is a single-page document from Dan Sullivan. It’s been a game changer whenever I’ve used it to start (or fix) a project.

Dan Sullivan’s “Who Not How” continues to be one of the most actionable business books I’ve read in the past decade. And one legacy benefit of this book was learning about a simple tool he uses called The Impact Filter. I’ve found 20-30 minutes of filling in this document, and any project, initiative, or plan becomes much more effective. And what about projects already in progress that get stuck? Yup, it helps with that too.

What Exactly is The Impact Filter?

The Impact Filter is divided into three sections, each with a few questions.

The first section defines the project’s purpose, importance, and ideal outcome. This helps me make sure this particular project is worth my resources.

The second section helps motivate me by forcing me to determine the upside should the project succeed and the downside should it fail.

The last section forces me to define success clearly. How will I know when this project or initiative is complete? For an obsessive person like myself, this is important. It allows me to move on to the next project knowing “enough is enough.”

Here is an example of the impact filter for a Q2 rock for my new company, Trinity Builder Solutions:

How to Get The Impact Filter

First, head over to The Strategic Coach resources here, enter an email, and download a PDF copy of the form. This includes a helpful cover page that dives deeper into The Impact Filter’s format and how to use it best.

Then, if you wish, I created Google Sheets and Excel templates of The Impact Filter for your use. It might save you a few minutes of formatting!

I hope you find this tool as helpful as my team and I. And all the best to you and your family as we remember those who have given so much this Memorial Day.

Books of Note: I don’t mean to hit you with back-to-back biography recommendations, but I must! David Nasaw’s The Chief is exceptional. William Randolph Hurst was a media titan of my favorite era of American history, so it was only fitting that I relished every page of this book. And for extra credit, read it before visiting Hearst Castle in San Simeon. It’s one of the more exceptional state parks in California.

If this post brought you value, I’d be honored if you’d subscribe to my newsletter. I’d also love a follow over on Twitter and Linkedin, as I post things there that are either too brief for the newsletter or are just entertaining things I come up with over a responsibly-sized serving of Blanton’s.