Measuring the Success Metric for Effective Succession Planning: The Conceptual Perspective

Abstract

This conceptual study aims to explore the evolution of succession planning by focusing on a systematic procedure and highlighting the instrument of success metric that influences succession planning effectiveness. There are several approaches to discuss the succession planning process and the effectiveness of the used methods. However, no single systematic process applies to the entire organization. Besides that, this research includes a literature review, focusing on key success metrics of succession planning. The metrics used to track succession planning effectiveness should be directly related to the organization’s strategic goal. Therefore, the metrics must be clearly defined and articulated as part of the organization’s formal succession plan. This study reveals three key success metrics of succession planning: (1) bench strength, (2) time-to-fill, and (3) talent turnover. A good success metric indication will allow a company to analyze the impact of a succession plan in retaining talent in the pipeline as a proactive strategy.