Strategic Planning is a structured process designed to provide clarity, focus, direction and continuity in moving the organization to bottom-line results. The goal of strategic planning should be to create internal processes that sustain or create distinct business advantages. It is recommended as one solution for developing and communicating the direction of the organization and involving key stakeholders in this process. One benefit of involving stakeholders in the strategic planning process is to reach consensus among stakeholders and gain their buy-in. This will create a sense of ownership in goal achievement and the overall direction of the organization. Often seen as an event, such as a one, two or three-day management retreat, strategic planning is a combination and series of meetings, discussions and evaluations that lead to organizational transformation and occurs over time.
The strategic planning process:
• Reviews the state of the organization
• Clarifies the values, mission, vision and purpose of the organization
• Identifies specific strategic initiatives (business goals)
• Links strategic goals directly to the mission of the organization
• Defines the leadership philosophy and organizational culture
• Identifies critical success factors
• Clarifies policies and procedures
• Establishes work guidelines and a “code of conduct” for meetings and interactions
• Assesses current resources and projects future resource requirements
• Clarifies roles and responsibilities of each department, manager and individual within the organization
• Examines internal processes
• Identifies current and potential customers (internal and external)
• Assesses current and targets future products and services
• Develops implementation timelines and associated accountability measurements
• Monitors progress and gives corrective feedback and direction
The list above is certainly not all-inclusive; it serves to demonstrate the many factors to be considered when engaging a strong strategic planning process and for inclusion in the written plan. A final written strategic plan is not a document set in stone but rather should serve as a reference tool for periodic review and monitoring of your organization success in moving toward superordinate goals. The written plan should be viewed as a living document, one that may need to be revisited, amended, expanded and even nurtured with one goal – achieving your organization’s mission.
