What is a potential limitation of using a maturity model for strategic alignment?

A maturity model is a tool used to assess the current state of processes or practices within an organization and can guide improvements. However, one of its potential limitations is that while it helps in evaluating and measuring maturity levels, it does not inherently facilitate or create strategic alignment. Instead, it provides a framework for understanding where an organization currently stands in terms of its operational processes but does not directly link to aligning those processes with the strategic objectives of the business.

For effective strategic alignment, it is essential to not only assess current capabilities but also to actively implement changes and make decisions that connect those capabilities to the organization's long-term goals. While a maturity model can inform leadership about where they need to develop, it does not provide the actionable pathway or strategic vision necessary to align processes with broader business strategy. Therefore, while the model can be valuable for identifying potential improvements and assessing resource allocation, its scope is limited to measurement rather than the enforced execution of alignment strategies.