Strategic Planning

Since the purpose of strategic planning is to move the organization towards its ideal, defining the ideal is the first step in strategic planning. This ideal is called the "vision". We define our "vision" by dreaming about what we would like the future to be-and articulating a mutually desirable vision of the future. No longer will activities of the organization work against each other. Resources will not be used for low priority projects. Since the desired end has been agreed upon, the organization now knows where it is headed.

Once we know where we wish to be, we take stock of where we are. Assessing the present requires evaluating the organization itself and the world around us. "SWOT Analysis" is often the first step. This requires identifying the strengths and weaknesses within the organization and the opportunities and threats which the organization faces in the world around it. An "Environmental Assessment" is also beneficial to determine what technical, environmental, social, demographic, and global trends are impacting the organization.

Now that we have defined where we want the organization to be and where it is, we can determine Key Result Areas, the most important areas of actions for the organization's success. Then we set organizational goals for each area. The goals include completion dates. Each goal is assigned to an individual or group within the organization who will be accountable for achieving the goal.

The only strategic plans that have any value are the ones which get implemented. The final steps here move past planning to ensure that the strategic plan is effective.

Developing implementation plans involves identifying intermediate objectives, action steps, required resources, etc. If the implementation plan goal can be achieved with current resources, and within current organizational policy, then the plan can be put into action. If not modifications may have to be made to the strategic plan goals, the implementation plan, resource allocation, and/or organizational policy to develop an achievable plan.

The leaders have the responsibility to ensure the organization is heading in the right direction. It is their job to follow-up with those who are accountable for each goal. The leaders decide what types of progress reports, and when they are required. They can then provide feedback to the implementation teams if any aspects of the strategic plan are straying from the intent.