Strategic planning, when effectively applied, improves an organization’s likelihood to achieve short and long-term goals. Yet many of us struggle with the appropriate follow through. According to an intelligence unit report by The Economist, 61% of respondents admitted their organizations struggle to bridge the gap between strategy formulation and day-to-day implementation.
So, what are the best next steps to implement a strategic plan?
Over the next few days, I will share one tip each day that is designed to help you, and your organization, follow through on a strategic plan. When applied correctly, these tips can create alignment and ultimately help your organization reach its goals.
Tip #3: Ensure the key parts of the strategic plan are highly visible and easy to access. Transform your strategic plan into a one page document, then keep it front and center. Do not file it on a single user computer folder, in a drawer or file cabinet. Everyone should have a copy, not just the members of the strategic planning team or committee.
Did you miss my previous tips on strategic plan implementation and follow through? Check them out here:
Tip 1: Communications plan
Tip 2: Transparency
Looking for additional tips and proven strategies to identify and meet business objectives this year? Join me on January 21 for the New Year, New Clarity: Strategic Planning Through a Continuous Improvement Lens webinar. We’ll discuss how to identify goals and deliverables; conduct a S.W.O.T. (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) Analysis; work on building contingency plans; and establish an internal communication plan to ensure alignment throughout the organization. Learn more and sign up at Lean Frontiers.