If only there was a simple OGSM template for PowerPoint or Excel to make creating the OGSM easier and faster. Look no further — we’ve got you covered. In this article we’ll share what makes a great OGSM template, show you exactly what our templates include, and give you everything you need to get started.
OGSM stands for Objective, Goals, Strategies and Measures and is a one-page business plan that defines ‘what’ you aim to achieve and ‘how’ you are going to achieve it. A well-designed OGSM template makes the creation process faster, more structured, and — crucially — produces a result you can actually use in leadership meetings and team briefings.
Using a template saves significant time and reduces the risk of common formatting mistakes. That said, a template is only as good as the thinking that goes into it — filling in boxes for the sake of it is the classic “template trap.” If you’re new to OGSM, read our Complete OGSM Framework Guide first for a solid foundation before picking up any template.
10-Page Strategy Presentation Template
Fully customizable strategy presentation template for Microsoft Powerpoint
What Makes a Great OGSM Template?
Not all OGSM templates are equal. A well-designed template doesn’t just look professional — it actively structures your thinking and makes the strategy clearer for everyone who reads it. Here’s what to look for:
- Clear visual hierarchy: The relationship between Objective → Goals → Strategies → Measures should be immediately obvious at a glance. Each section should flow logically from left to right.
- Space for real content: Strategies need room for a full sentence using the “what-by-how” method. Measures need space for both KPIs and action items. Templates that cram everything into tiny cells force you to oversimplify.
- Separate space for metrics and actions: The Measures column works best when it distinguishes between Key Metrics (the numbers) and Actions (the initiatives). This distinction is critical for execution.
- Presentation-ready design: The OGSM is most powerful when it can be shared directly with your leadership team or board without additional formatting work.
- Fully editable: Every element — colors, fonts, column widths, text — should be customizable to your brand and context.
The Rock Your Strategy OGSM Templates
We offer OGSM templates for both Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Excel — each designed to the criteria above and built from our hands-on experience deploying the OGSM framework across dozens of organizations over the past decade.
This is what our OGSM Template for PowerPoint looks like:
And this is what our OGSM Template for Excel looks like:
Browse all OGSM templates in our shop.
DIY vs. Ready-Made: What to Expect
You can build your own OGSM template from scratch — many people do. Here’s an honest comparison to help you decide:
| Build Your Own | Rock Your Strategy Template | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup time | 2–3 hours (design + formatting) | Ready immediately |
| Design quality | Depends on your skills | Professional, presentation-ready |
| OGSM structure | Self-built from scratch | Pre-formatted to best practice |
| Measures (KPIs + actions) | You design the layout | Split built in |
| Fully editable | Yes | Yes — fully customizable |
| Cost | Free (but your time isn’t) | $4.99 |
How to Fill In Your OGSM Template
The OGSM is built from left to right: Objective first, then Goals, then Strategies, then Measures. For a full deep dive into each component — including how to write a strong objective, set SMART goals, and develop strategies using the “what-by-how” method — see our Complete OGSM Framework Guide. Here’s a quick orientation for each field:
The Objective
A qualitative statement describing where your business is headed — your strategic ambition. Write it as one clear sentence using the “what-by-how” format. Make it specific enough that it could only apply to your business. Learn how to write a great objective here.
The Goals
SMART metrics that translate your objective into measurable outcomes. Include financial and operational targets. Goals define what success looks like in numbers. Learn how to set clear OGSM goals here.
The Strategies
Your 3–5 high-impact choices about where to focus resources. Each strategy should be written as a clear “what-by-how” statement specific to your business context — not a generic platitude. Learn how to develop strategies that work here.
The Measures
The actions and metrics that drive implementation of each strategy. Split into Key Metrics (2–3 numbers that define success per strategy) and Actions (2–3 concrete initiatives with owners and timelines). Learn how to set effective measures here.
OGSM Example
Finding the right level of detail for your strategy takes practice. The OGSM format helps you calibrate — specific enough to be actionable, high-level enough to fit on one page. The following real-world example illustrates what a completed OGSM looks like in practice.
Click here to read how Tony’s Pizza used the OGSM methodology to transform from a local pizza parlor into a thriving Italian family restaurant.
Where to Go From Here?
Download an OGSM template to get started right away, or explore more of our OGSM resources to sharpen your strategic thinking first.
Read 13 reasons why successful companies use the OGSM methodology, explore the Complete OGSM Framework Guide, or read about how to avoid the 7 deadly sins of business strategy.
On our Resources page you can find additional strategy tools, OGSM examples, workshop materials, and much more.
Questions or comments? Drop them in the comment box below, or sign up to our free newsletter and receive practical strategy tips straight to your inbox. Rock on!
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