The importance of strategy for the evolving field of radiology

During the 20th century, the field of radiology experienced extraordinary growth and became an essential component of the practice of clinical medicine. In the 21st century, it is likely that radiology will continue to grow by interfacing with new and important domains such as information technology and molecular biology and by playing a more central role in general medical education, biomedical research, and noninvasive therapeutic interventions. To sustain such wide-ranging growth and yet remain intact as a medical specialty, the profession will require many radiologists who can provide leadership to bridge the many gaps between the various frontiers and the traditional core of radiology. These radiologists will need skills and background in two critical management areas: leadership and strategy. This article approaches the broad topic of strategy in several ways. First, it provides the radiologist with a basic framework for strategy development. Second, it summarizes central ideas from the evolving field of strategic thinking. Finally, it outlines a strategy-based method for dealing with uncertainty about the future and identifies situations where specific strategic tools and techniques are likely to be helpful.