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| Path: Main Street > Resources/Library > Research Articles > Feature Article |
What's the process for developing a strategic plan?By Ron Robinson, President of ABARIS Consulting Inc.
The process for developing a strategic plan will vary from organization to organization, and for some it may take several months to complete while for others it will only take a few days. Having said that, all organizations generally follow many of the same steps when developing their strategic plan. The key difference between organizations lies in the amount of time and effort they spend gathering information, undertaking analysis, obtaining stakeholder input and gaining their commitment.
December 3, 2001
While the depth and breadth of each organization's plan is specific, the basic aspects of the process in developing a strategic plan generally include:These steps are not always, nor should they be, followed in the order they have been outlined. The optimal order depends on the needs, capabilities and work done to date by the specific organization. However, there are a few rules that all organizations should follow, regardless of their size.
- Understanding why you need a strategic plan.
- Determining if you need assistance in developing your strategic plan.
- Conducting a stakeholder analysis.
- Determining the scope of the strategic plan.
- Deciding upon the level of resources.
- Deciding on the information needs.
- Gathering and analyzing the necessary information.
- Formulating the process.
- Facilitating the process.
- Documenting the outcomes and obtaining participant commitment.
- Drafting the strategic plan.
- Approving the strategic plan.
- Communicating the strategic plan.
1. Spend the time upfront to get your key stakeholders input and commitment to the strategic planning process.
Ron Robinson is the president of ABARIS Consulting Inc. He can be reached at (519) 472-9788 or rrobinson@abarisconsulting.com. This article is provided free of charge, for information purposes only and is not intended, represented or to be inferred as providing advice. ABARIS Consulting Inc. makes no warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability for accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information provided in whole or in part within this article.
2. Although decisions can be made in the absence of information, ensure that you have the key pieces of information you need to make intelligent decisions.
3. Plan the plan. Take the time upfront to determine what you expect out of the process, what information needs to be available to make decisions, who needs to be involved, etc. A little planning upfront will not only save you time but also allow you to use your resources more wisely.
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