The truth about strategic planning is that it is rarely strategic. Most often, planning sessions are spent discussing the coming year’s budget or hashing through operational issues. The reality, however, is that strategic planning is a unique opportunity for executives and managers to determine and communicate the collective direction of the organization.
Over the years, MFM has facilitated dozens of strategic plans, and from them we’ve learned important lessons to help you make the most of your upcoming session.
- Avoid letting the session turn into a “To Do” list.
The objective of a strategic plan is to think – and get others to think – more globally. Reviewing your organizational mission, vision, and unique purpose for existence is an important part of the process. Discussing in the broad term what keeps you relevant is crucial. Only when that is achieved should you assign specific tasks to individuals that tie back to your overall brand and objective. - Fewer Objectives. More Performance.
When you have a group of decision-makers in the same room, it’s tempting to try to present everything on your personal agenda. And, though these issues may be important and require attention at some point, when you give people too many priorities, they’re only able to achieve baby steps on each, rather than reach success for the critical few. - Implement. Implement. Implement.
Many companies excel in plan development, but few implement them well – most often due to a lack of time. What most plans lack is a framework that includes an accountability system, action steps, and follow-up initiatives. Without this framework, your plan risks being filed away and your time and effort are wasted.
In our business, time is precious, so as you think about your 2009 strategic plan, be sure to use it wisely. For more in-depth consultation, or full strategic planning services, contact Joni Sievers at jonis@millsmarketing.com, or 888.733.4899.
