Description of Strategic Planning
Strategic planning is not the same as long-range planning. With long-range planning, an organization envisions and sets goals for the future, and develops the necessary procedures, tasks, and actions for achieving that future. Because of the unpredictable nature of running a nonprofit these days, however, long-range planning is no longer enough.
Strategic planning takes into account the ever-changing external and internal issues that impact and shapes an organization. It is also a continuous process. Where long-range planners assume current trends will continue and map out a most likely future, strategic planners expect change and consider a range of possible futures. Strategic planners keep options open so they can respond promptly and effectively to changes in the environment. These changes are factored into an organization's plan to achieve its goals.
The ideal strategic plan:
-
Ensures that the goals and objectives of the plan fit the mission and purpose of the organization.
-
Identifies strategies for taking advantage of opportunities and reducing external threats that can impact the organization and its future.
-
Identifies an organization's internal strengths and weaknesses so the plan is built on the strengths and reduces the impact of the weaknesses.
-
Focuses on critical issues the agency must address.
-
Includes a plan of action for achieving the goals and objectives as well as a strategy for implementing the plan.
-
Identifies contingency options for coping with a variety of potentials and scenarios.
