Hallam & Voss Consulting
Aligning outcomes since 2011
- :
- All Client-Facing Staff
- :
- Priya Castellanos, VP Language & Alignment
- :
- October 6, 2026
- :
- Retirement of the word 'synergy', effective Q3, pending alignment
Following a review of outcomes, the term synergy will be withdrawn from all decks, proposals and hallway conversations effective the start of Q3. This decision was reached through a cross-functional working group and reflects feedback that the word no longer lands.
Approved alternatives:
- •cross-functional value
- •integrated upside
- •the combined thing being more than the two things
- •leverage (noun), where leverage (verb) is unavailable
Staff are asked to leverage the approved alternatives in a manner that captures the same cross-functional value the retired term previously delivered. Decks already in circulation may retain the term until their next revision, at which point it should be sunset with care.
Timeline:
- •Q3: word retired
- •Q4: audit of residual usage
- •Q1: review of whether anyone noticed
We recognise that change is a journey. Questions may be directed to the Language & Alignment inbox, which will respond within three business days or when alignment is reached, whichever is later.
In partnership,
Priya Castellanos, VP Language & Alignment