Strategic Planning

Strategic Planning for Operational Effectiveness |

by Michael Stanleigh |

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The process of developing a strategic plan seems onerous to many of us and of little value to others. In our experience we have found that the fault lies not in the concept of strategic planning but rather in the process of developing the plan itself. In order to move beyond the traditional methodology to create organizational effectiveness, strategic planning must consist of a clear process for planning that involves all levels of employees as well as customers. |

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The bia™ Strategic Planning process requires 3 full days to complete and involves the following 8 steps: |

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1. Collect Feedback from customers, staff and benchmark research results.

This first step is best undertaken before the Strategic Planning session begins because it requires historical review and input from all levels of staff as well as customers. It is a comprehensive review of strengths, weaknesses, emergent opportunities and threats to your business. 2. Review the Organization's Current Situation.

All participants in the Strategic Development session come prepared to present a summary of what they've accomplished in their own area of responsibility over the past year. As well, they will include any long and short-term problems that they encountered. Essentially, we are trying to set the stage for understanding the past in order to overcome any obstacles that might prevent us from meeting our vision. 3. Look into the future--what is our dream or vision for the department or organization?

This requires making correct assumptions about what the organization will be like, and about our potential for making unique contributions over the next 2-3 years. Broad-based involvement in discussing these issues is essential to the Strategy-Development process because success depends on the understanding and commitment of all the people involved in making the vision a reality. 4. Develop Vision, Mission...