What is EOS®? - The Entrepreneurial Operating System
What is EOS®?
EOS® (Entrepreneurial Operating System) is a complete business management system that helps growing companies get everything they want from their business. It's a set of simple, practical tools that help you clarify, simplify, and achieve your vision.
The EOS® Story
EOS® was created by Gino Wickman, who observed that most growing companies face the same fundamental challenges:
- Lack of clarity about where the company is going
- Poor communication between team members
- Inconsistent execution of plans and strategies
- No accountability for results
- Reactive management instead of proactive leadership
After helping hundreds of companies solve these problems, Gino developed EOS® as a comprehensive system that addresses all these issues.
The Six Key Components™
EOS® is built around six key components that work together to create a strong, healthy organization:
1. Vision - Get Everyone on the Same Page
The Vision component helps you clarify where you're going and how you'll get there. It includes:
- Core Values - The fundamental beliefs that guide your company
- Core Focus - What you do best and what you're passionate about
- 10-Year Target - Your long-term vision for the company
- Marketing Strategy - How you'll attract your ideal customers
- 3-Year Picture - A clear picture of what success looks like in 3 years
- 1-Year Plan - Your top priorities for the next 12 months
2. People - Get the Right People in the Right Seats
The People component ensures you have the right people doing the right things:
- Organizational Chart - Clear structure showing who reports to whom
- Accountability Chart - Who is accountable for what results
- People Analyzer™ - Tool to assess if people fit your culture and values
- Right Person, Right Seat - Ensuring people are in roles that match their skills
3. Data - Manage by Numbers
The Data component helps you track the right metrics:
- Scorecard - 5-15 key metrics you review weekly
- Measurables - Clear numbers that indicate success or problems
- Weekly Reporting - Regular updates on key performance indicators
4. Issues - Solve Problems Throughout the Organization
The Issues component provides a systematic way to identify and solve problems:
- Issues List - Central place to track all problems and opportunities
- Issues Solving Track™ - Step-by-step process for resolving issues
- Level 10 Meeting™ - Weekly meeting format for discussing and solving issues
5. Process - Systemize Your Business
The Process component helps you document and follow your core processes:
- Core Processes - The fundamental ways you do business
- Process Documentation - Clear, written procedures for key activities
- Process Adherence - Ensuring everyone follows the established processes
6. Traction - Execute with Discipline
The Traction component ensures you execute your plans effectively:
- Rocks - 90-day priorities that move you toward your goals
- Meeting Pulse - Regular meetings that keep everyone aligned
- To-Do Lists - Clear action items with deadlines and accountability
How EOS® Works
EOS® works through a series of tools and meetings that create alignment and accountability:
Level 10 Meeting™
A structured 90-minute weekly meeting that follows a proven agenda:
- Segue (5 min) - Personal updates and team building
- Scorecard Review (5 min) - Review key metrics
- Rock Review (10 min) - Check progress on quarterly priorities
- Customer/Employee Headlines (5 min) - Important updates
- Issues List (60 min) - Identify and solve problems
- Conclude (5 min) - Rate the meeting and confirm next steps
Quarterly Planning Sessions
Regular sessions to review progress and set new priorities:
- Review the previous quarter's results
- Set new Rocks (90-day priorities)
- Update the Vision and plans
- Address major issues
Annual Planning
Yearly session to review and update your long-term vision and strategy.
The EOS® Tools
EOS® includes several practical tools that help implement the system:
V/TO™ (Vision/Traction Organizer)
A one-page document that captures your complete vision and plan.
Scorecard
A weekly report showing your key performance indicators.
Rocks
90-day priorities that help you achieve your goals.
Issues List
A central place to track problems and opportunities.
People Analyzer™
A tool to assess if people fit your culture and values.
Why EOS® Works
EOS® works because it addresses the fundamental challenges that all growing companies face:
Simplicity
EOS® uses simple, practical tools that anyone can understand and use.
Completeness
It covers all aspects of running a business, from vision to execution.
Proven Results
Thousands of companies have successfully implemented EOS® and achieved significant improvements.
Scalability
The system works for companies of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
Common EOS® Myths
Myth: EOS® is only for large companies
Reality: EOS® works for companies of all sizes, from 10 employees to 10,000+.
Myth: EOS® requires a consultant
Reality: While consultants can help, you can implement EOS® yourself using the tools and resources available.
Myth: EOS® is rigid and inflexible
Reality: EOS® provides a framework that you can adapt to your specific needs and culture.
Myth: EOS® takes too much time
Reality: EOS® actually saves time by reducing confusion, improving communication, and increasing efficiency.
Getting Started with EOS®
Step 1: Learn the System
Read "Traction" by Gino Wickman to understand the complete EOS® system.
Step 2: Assess Your Company
Use the EOS® assessment tools to identify your current strengths and weaknesses.
Step 3: Start with One Component
Begin implementing one component (usually Vision or People) and gradually add others.
Step 4: Get Your Team on Board
Ensure your leadership team understands and commits to the EOS® process.
Step 5: Use the Tools
Start using the EOS® tools like the Scorecard, Rocks, and Level 10 Meeting™.
MeetingTango and EOS®
MeetingTango is designed to make implementing EOS® easier and more effective:
Built-in EOS® Tools
MeetingTango includes all the core EOS® tools:
- V/TO™ Organizer
- Scorecard
- Level 10 Meeting™ structure
- People Analyzer™
- Issues List
- Rocks management
Automation and Integration
MeetingTango connects all your EOS® tools so they work together seamlessly:
- Scorecard updates automatically when you complete Rocks
- Meeting agendas pull from your Issues and To-Do's
- Progress tracking across all components
Affordable Implementation
MeetingTango provides EOS® tools at a fraction of the cost of traditional consulting, making the system accessible to more companies.
Success Stories
Companies that implement EOS® typically see:
- Improved communication and alignment
- Faster decision-making and execution
- Better accountability and results
- Reduced stress and conflict
- Increased growth and profitability
Next Steps
Ready to learn more about implementing EOS® in your company?
- Read "Traction" by Gino Wickman
- Take the EOS® assessment to see where your company stands
- Start with MeetingTango to get the tools you need
- Join an EOS® community to learn from others
EOS® has helped thousands of companies achieve their vision and get everything they want from their business. With the right tools and commitment, it can do the same for yours.