Strategic thinking that produces a viable plan requires time. Few companies are willing to invest that time so those that do have an immediate advantage. Second, arriving at a plan requires dialogue. If a company’s management is unwilling or unable to invest the time, the plan will not materialize. Finally, change is a way of life and to be successful, companies must invest the time and resources to plan for it.
For a successful strategic planning meeting, an organization must have BOTH the information related to its industry (including technical data, market intelligence, sales projections and corporate resources) and an effective process. Process is all about the way information is shared and decisions are made.
As a Facilitator, Steve Marks’ focus is on the process.
- At least two days should be scheduled for the initial session.
- It must be held off site.
- The process must involve all the key players – CEO or President and the Management Team. In smaller companies, every employee might be involved.
- Specific action steps are identified, tied to a deadline and assigned to an individual.
- A report of the meeting is produced.
- Regular follow-up is essential.
Possible topics are:
- What new business areas should we be entering?
- What current business areas should we be exiting?
- What current business areas should we be expanding?
- What are we uniquely good at?
- Where are we now?
- How did we get to where we are?
- Where do we want to go?
- How do we get there from here?
What additional knowledge, skills or resources will we require to achieve our objectives?
Steve Marks’ strategic planning programs are designed to meet your organization’s unique needs.
To discuss the possibilities, e-mail info@StephenMarks.com