The importance of developing strategic-planning and -thinking skills in today's highly competitive business environment is undeniable. However, sorting through the complexities of this challenging topic is daunting to anyone asked to create the strategic planning mindset in all levels of an organization.
a. Fundamentals of Strategic Planning and Strategic Thinking
- Perceptions of strategic planning
- Definition and key components of strategic planning
- Purpose and goals of strategic planning
- Value of strategic thinking
- Levels of planning in organizations
- An integrated model for strategic planning
- Stages of strategic plan development
- Involving stakeholders in the strategic planning process
- Organizational strengths to support and sustain strategic plan implementation
b. Advanced Issues in Strategic Planning
- Characteristics of an inspiring vision for the future
- Creating a shared vision for the future
- Defining core values
- Conducting a SWOT analysis
- Developing strategic action plans
- Implementing the strategic plan in the face of uncertainty and chaos
c. Developing Strategic Thinkers
- Components of strategic thinking
- Developing the strategic issues map
d. Strategic Problem Solving and Decision Making (PSDM)
- Definitions and distinctions
- Exploring our PSDM history
- Principles to guide strategic PSDM
- Approaches to PSDM
- Applying the Strategic Problem Solving Model
- What is your imagination quotient
- Writing the problem statement
- Involving others in strategic PSDM
e. Tools for Strategic Problem Solving and Decision Making
- Strategic PSDM tool kit and prioritizing the the tools
- Applying the tools
- Personal action planning