Myth 1: Strategic Planning is an event.
Strategic planning is not an afternoon meeting or a weekend retreat
The retreat is but one of many methods to engage a group of people in developing a strategic plan for an organization.
Myth 2: A Strategic Plan is a document; some graphics and buzzwords worthy of the finest presentations.
How many times have I been presented with a lovely glossy-covered, bound document of which an organization is rightfully proud? Duly impressive. Oftentimes, a well-meaning team has worked very hard on this document; but, when I start to ask questions, I learn that few employees and stakeholders know what they are supposed to do with it.Your planning journey should include a well-defined process that everyone can navigate; a step-by-step action plan as well as the tools, resources and continued support to keep the momentum moving forward.
Myth 3: Strategic Planning is too hard.
Roll up your sleeves. Undertaking a strategic process involves participation, vision, collaboration, questioning, navel gazing, research…there are many excellent processes for you to follow. And following the ENTIRE process is important.Follow a process and stick with it. It works and it doesn’t need to be complicated!
Myth 4: I can write the organization’s Strategic Plan. Involving others will just take more time.
Get the right people involved. It doesn’t need to take a year to develop a strategic plan, in fact, depending on the size of the organization and the level of involvement desired, you can easily create a strategic plan and accompanying action plan in less than three months (that’s lag time), total effort may not be more than 8 days total and not even per person. Combine corporate and industry information with stakeholder expertise and innovation.
Myth 5: Strategic Planning takes too much time and costs too much.
Strategic planning is an investment. Rest assured that time spent thinking, planning, acting strategically promises positive returns.--
Josée Lemoine, Founder and President
Pivot Advisory Services
Copyright 2016 – Pivot Advisory Services
