How EOS Transformed UDP

Urban Design Partners (UDP) was founded in 2005 with a clear mission to assist our clients in creating people-centered spaces that inspire and serve the public. As the firm expanded and took on increasingly complex projects, it became clear we needed a scalable framework to manage workload and people, enhance operational efficiency, and align our growing team. In 2018, after extensive research, we implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). While integration required commitment and time, EOS has since become a fundamental part of our organization and a key driver of our continued success.

What the Heck is EOS?
The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) is a practical framework designed to help businesses clarify their vision, align their teams, and consistently achieve results. At its core, EOS is focused on six key components:

1. Vision – Ensuring all team members are aligned with the organization’s direction.
2. People – Placing the right individuals in the right roles.
3. Data – Leveraging key metrics to inform decisions.
4. Issues – Proactively identifying and resolving obstacles.
5. Process – Creating consistent and efficient workflows.
6. Traction – Building accountability and execution into the organization.

With EOS, companies gain the clarity and discipline needed to achieve long-term goals without compromising their culture or agility.

Why We Chose EOS
In 2018, UDP had reached a point where continued growth demanded stronger internal systems and processes. EOS offered the structure we needed, while also aligning with our core values:

• Accountability – Clearly defined roles and expectations reduced inefficiencies.
• Transparency – A culture of open communication strengthened collaboration.
• Results – A focused approach led to more measurable and strategic execution.

Implementing EOS enabled us to formalize our internal processes, build a predictable operating rhythm, and reinforce a culture centered on clarity and shared purpose.

How EOS Has Helped UDP
Clear Accountability and Strategic Priorities
Prior to EOS, some roles and responsibilities at UDP were loosely defined, leading to occasional confusion and responsibility overlap. The implementation of the Accountability Chart resolved these issues. It is a tool that goes beyond a traditional org chart. It clearly outlines every seat in the organization, defines key responsibilities, and ensures each person knows who they report to and what they own.

EOS also introduced us to the concept of “Rocks” – our top quarterly priorities that guide our teams. Rocks help us focus on the most impactful goals, avoiding distraction and aligning our efforts with the company’s strategic direction.

More Effective, Purposeful Meetings
One of the most noticeable changes has been the effectiveness of our weekly Level 10 Meetings (L10s). These meetings bring together UDPs leadership team, who work together to sync priorities across departments, address challenges, and advance decision making. L10s have become a cornerstone of our operations, serving as a strategic touchpoint that reinforces alignment and drives execution.

Data-Driven Insights and Problem Solving
EOS has strengthened our use of data across the organization. With Scorecards, we track key performance indicators (KPIs) on a weekly basis, gaining real-time visibility into the health of our operations and business.

Additionally, the Identify-Discuss-Solve (IDS) process has transformed our approach to problem-solving. By encouraging candid discussion and collaborative resolution, IDS fosters a proactive and solutions-focused culture.

The Results: A Stronger, More Aligned UDP
Since implementing EOS, we’ve seen significant improvements in organizational clarity, team engagement, and operational performance:

• Clear ownership and accountability across the organization.
• Greater efficiency in project execution.
• Improved, data-informed decision-making.
• A more energized, purpose-driven team environment.

These outcomes have not only strengthened our internal culture, but have also enhanced our ability to deliver consistent, high-quality results for our clients.

Looking Ahead
Today, EOS is fully woven into the fabric of UDP. We train every new employee the first week they join us on the details of EOS and how it benefits us as a team. We even provide each employee a book, “What the Heck is EOS”, to learn and read up on the EOS process. It provides the structure and clarity we need to grow while preserving the values that define us.
As we continue to scale, EOS will remain our foundation tool for leadership development, operational excellence, and strategic alignment. It allows us to pursue innovation and growth with confidence, ensuring we remain true to who we are while evolving into who we aspire to become.