Strategic Planning

We've noticed something interesting about organizations with whom we do strategic planning.

Invariably, those with the most complaints about prior strategic planning have the least idea about how to implement their results.

The critical step is to realize that strategic planning is just one step in a process and it's not the focus. High performance is our target. Monthly accountability is our real goal for this process. And strategic planning is simply a critical tool along the way.

DWA Strategic Planning Framework

During Pre-Planning you should expect to gather all the critical information we'll need to conduct the planning effort. Financial analysis, sales reports, staffing information, feedback from customers. If data doesn't exist, this the time to gather it.

From Strategic Planning, you should expect: A valid values, vision, and mission output; a clear situation analysis of the current state of the organization; a clear concept of market positioning and niche; a financial and growth forecast to include margin and profit based on prior financial analysis (even for non-profit organizations); a solid organizational and staffing matrix; the development of key Performance Factors to be monitored on a monthly basis; the identification and selection of forward goals, action steps, responsibilities, and timelines; and instruction in the monthly performance management methodology, the "Performance Factor Process."

In Post-Planning we apply the results of the planning process. This includes: creating Performance Budgets based on the Performance Factors identified; distributing assigned accountabilities; widely communicating the results of the process and the forward outlook for the organization; and preparing for the next regular meeting.

In Monthly Accountability, we are checking performance and looking forward to what needs to be done next. Because we're always looking forward, our performance check is brief, crisp, and success is expected. We celebrate success, problem solve issues, and forward plan additional actions toward corporate goals.

The DWA Strategic Planning process is never just about doing the plan and letting it sit on the shelf. For us, your high performance is the goal.

Get started with planning for performance today. Contact DWA right now.

Insightful News
Kudos
"Dustin helped me learn what it means to be a business owner and how to make better, yet sometimes difficult, decisions. He coached me through a major business transition. Dustin is incredibly intelligent, creative and capable of working with any situation."
Julie Boselly
EdPrint, Inc.