Week 10 - Planning

A strategic planning process is not something that can happen in an ad hoc way, at a regular planning meeting or during a staff meeting. It requires careful planning to set it up so that the process is thorough and comprehensive. When we develop or revise a strategic planning, we are setting the parameters for the work of our organisation, usually for two to three years or longer. So it does make sense to spend some time and energy planning for the strategic planning process.[1]

There are many definitions for strategic planning. In a collaborative project, characteristics of a strategic plan may include:

-define the purpose and mission of the project;

-identify current and long term aims;

-a framework for both day to day detailed planning and long term planning;

-strategic decision-making over time;

-all levels of management[2]

There are some advices for a strategic planning process:

· A strategic planning process is essential when a new project is initiating

· Do not do a strategic planning process more than once every two year, yet strategic review can be seen as a sort of reality check against what is happening internally or externally

· Review progress when the end of a major phase in a project is reached

In terms of who should participate in the strategic planning process, it is important to involve the whole collaborative team in at least part of the planning process because the strategic planning process helps to clarify, consolidate or establish the strategic framework.
Here is a guide for who should get involved in a particular strategic planning phase:

-Planning the process – the management team of the project

-Understanding the context – all members if it is important for them to understand the project’s issues

-Vision, values and mission discussion – all board members as it is likely to provide a set of operating principles

-Review of strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats – Programme or professional member for the whole of this process

-Discussion of strategic options and goals – professional and board members

-Organisational structure – the management team with input from the rest of the member

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Reference:

[1] Janet Shapiro, “Strategic Planning Toolkit”, viewed 25 May 2008, <http://www.civicus.org/new/media/Strategic%20Planning.pdf>

[2] Paul Bullen, “Strategic Planning outline”, Management Alternative Pty Ltd, viewed 25 May 2008, <http://www.mapl.com.au/A10.htm>