Strategic Planning does not have to be an annoying, frustrating, waste of time!

 

Strategic Planning does not have to be a ‘necessary evil’!

 

I don't think people object to the idea of planning. However, I do think many people are turned off when we use that 2-word combination - Strategic Planning.

 

I suspect many people have had negative planning experiences including:

• They planned the work then failed to succeed when they implemented the plan.
• They hated the planning process because it was boring or bureaucratic or too slowly paced.
• They were frustrated by the planning process because it took away time they needed to handle important day-to-day work or perhaps even time they needed to handle an emergency.

Strategic Planning has left bad tastes in people's mouths.

 

OK.

 

We all are in agreement. Many of us have participated in strategic planning efforts, which have failed.

 

So, when it comes to strategic planning - Why Bother?            

 

Here’s why…

• The strategic planning process is the vehicle for important communication…absolutely critical if businesses are to have a competitive advantage…let alone sustain a competitive advantage.
• Strategic planning does not have to be frustrating, boring, or in any way an unpleasant process. Certainly, there are necessary ingredients that, if not properly packaged, can be boring or bureaucratic. The key is – better packaging of the strategic planning ingredients. The process can be entertaining, enjoyable, provocative…even inspiring and motivating!  You simply need to make sure your process is refreshing. When the process is refreshing you and your people will be invigorated by the time spent together creating your future business success.
• The strategic planning process does not have to be time-consuming. Sure, it will take some time. Here’s a hint: you should do the most-important things first. Another hint: focus on Strengths. When constructed properly the planning process builds upon itself…in an inspiring way.

 

Another thought…

 

Many of us volunteer considerable time to community and charitable service. Much of that service is dedicated to planning…planning committees, planning events, planning speakers, planning fundraising, planning celebrations, etc. While some of these contributions compete with the time we need for our work interests, we nonetheless freely volunteer our time… to do planning work. We choose to volunteer time for strategic planning because we know it is essential for community and charitable success. We must make the same choice if we desire sustained business success.