What is the Process for Creating a Strategic Plan? Part 1

It is a 4 step process: 1. Understanding 2. Analysis 3. Planning 4. Action 1. Understanding: The Strategic Plan (SP) is a big picture tool for the organization, therefore the Strategic Facilities Plan (SFP) must mesh with the SP. A thorough understanding understanding of the needs of the organization is crucial. The SFP includes not only the strategic and long range goals of the organization, it must evaluate existing facilities and the conceptualization, planning and implementation of new facilities. Without a full understanding of current conditions and needs seeing the future is not possible. This is NOT the final word, but a setting out of options, goals in harmony with the organizations SP. One would not want to take a strictly cost centered approach as this is short sighted lacking in vision and will fail to addressthe actual delivery of goods and services. The business-driven approach though a longer process, provides a clear vision for growth, earns support, strengthens the business. This method will examine each business unit and its goals and needs, integrating these into the SFP.. Next week we will look at Step 2: Analysis.