Focus: Strategic Planning II

Company Background, Milestones & Strategic Objectives- this part of the strategic plan is very comprehensive:

1.    Vision & Mission Statements

a.     Vision- an image of the future we seek to create.

b.     Mission- Purpose, reason for being. Who we are, what we do.

2.    Business description, products/services, business model/how do you make money, target markets, financial performance history.

3.    Goals-Objectives-Strategies- Categories for these may include financial goals, growth & profitability goals, operational, community/social, technological, employee related, expansion to new markets, new product development, maximizing shareholder value, merger/acquisition etc. Note: the departmental tactical plans will describe how the organization will meet these goals through specific objectives.

4.    SWOT analysis- the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the business including competitive analysis & benchmarking.

5.    Management & Organization- Describe the organization structure, human resources and organizational development strategy. Should include succession planning for key positions.

Recommendation: Utilize the services of a planning professional outside your organization to facilitate the strategic planning process in your business. The business stakeholders need to participate at a high level. It is difficult to be engaged as a participant and facilitate at the same time.