S.A.G.E: Shurahi Approach for Growth & Excellence

The Shuhari concept, deeply ingrained in Japanese martial arts philosophy, finds a distinct and rich expression in Wado-Ryu Karate, one of the four major traditional karate styles founded by Master Hironori Ohtsuka in the early 20th century. Rooted in both Okinawan Karate and Japanese Jujutsu, Wado-Ryu uniquely embodies the principle of harmony—"Wa"—emphasizing fluidity, evasion, and the blending of an opponent's force rather than direct confrontation.

The learning progression of Shuhari—Shu (守), meaning to uphold and learn established forms, Ha (破), to break away and adapt teachings contextually, and Ri (離), to transcend and innovate beyond the rules—mirrors the martial artist’s journey in Wado-Ryu. Ohtsuka’s philosophy, inspired by both rigorous training and spiritual reflection, encourages practitioners to first master foundational techniques, then personalize and refine their skills, culminating in a creative elite level where one transcends tradition to innovate and lead.

This historical and philosophical lineage of Shuhari in Wado-Ryu Karate provides a profound framework for learning and mastery—not only in martial arts but also as a transformative model applicable to complex skill development and continuous improvement in modern organizational contexts like workshops we deliver.

Empowering Sustainable Growth Through Mastery

Innovance Global Advisors introduces SAGE—our signature methodology blending the timeless mastery model of Shuhari with advanced business transformation practices. SAGE is more than a framework: it’s a pathway for organizations to unlock enduring value, optimized processes, and continuous innovation in today’s dynamic market.

What is S.A.G.E?

SAGE stands for Shuhari Approach for Growth & Excellence. Inspired by the Japanese martial arts concept of Shuhari, SAGE guides your team through three stages of capability building:

  • Shu (守) – Learn & Apply: Master the fundamentals. We guide your teams to rigorously understand and implement proven processes—especially with new CRMs, ERP rollouts, or financial controls.

  • Ha (破) – Adapt & Evolve: With mastery, comes adaptation. Supported by our advisors, participants learn how to tailor methods or technologies to unique business contexts without sacrificing core performance or compliance.

  • Ri (離) – Innovate & Lead: In this final stage, your organization is empowered to set new standards. Teams are equipped to drive change, pilot improvements, and champion best practices across operations.

Why SAGE? The Innovance Difference

  • SAGE is tailored for the Innovance clientele:

    • Multinational service centers and GBS/SSC leaders evolving global operations.

    • Organizations implementing digital transformations, ERP, or CRM systems seeking not just adoption, but true operational synergy.

    • Finance, compliance, and process excellence teams looking to anchor new routines and foster innovation.

    With SAGE, your teams move beyond one-off training. They internalize best practices, adapt intelligently, and drive sustainable improvements.

How the SAGE Workshop Works

Our signature workshops, available as standalone sessions or as an element of larger transformation projects, follow a dynamic, interactive structure:

  • Learn the Foundations (Shu): Targeted modules build essential understanding—whether in digital tools, performance management frameworks, or regulatory processes.

  • Adapt and Apply (Ha): Through case studies, real scenarios, and guided experimentation, teams learn to contextualize and adjust frameworks for real business impact.

  • Drive Continuous Excellence (Ri): Participants are challenged to identify, propose, and pilot improvements—embedding a cycle of excellence that continues well beyond the workshop itself.

Workshops are delivered with the expertise that defines Innovance: international, hands-on, and results-oriented. Each engagement is configured to your sector, locale, and specific transformation goals.

SAGE in Action - for Your Organization

Benefits for Innovance Global Advisors’ Clients:

  • Accelerated adoption of complex transformations (CRM, ERP, process standardization)

  • Long-term value—teams transition from compliance to innovation and process leadership

  • Sustainable culture of excellence powered by continuous skills advancement

Ready to Transform with SAGE?

Empower your leaders and teams to not only adapt to change, but to master and drive it. Contact Innovance Global Advisors to discover how a SAGE-powered workshop can elevate your next transformation initiative.