11 Pieces to a Strategic Plan

As summertime approaches, many business are beginning the planning process for 2019. This sounds far in advance but if you consider how long it takes to go from insight to activation, it’s not that crazy. Depending on your business and the external factors that influence your plan, your herd could be looking at years to see the fruits of their labor in market. So, where should you begin? There are many different methods to building a strategic plan and while it’s important to find a method that works for your herd, there are 11 crucial elements that you should include as inputs in to the conversation.

As you examine this list, there are most likely elements that you already have – perhaps a Mission or a Vision. But, a SWOT analysis and a Financial Assessment will need to be done each year to ensure you have the most up to date information to inform your plan. Take this list with you as you go in to planning meetings this summer to ensure your team is prepared.

Each of these can be multi-day workshops that are time consuming and can get emotional for your herd. Sometimes it’s worthwhile to have an outside perspective to help guide the conversation and keep you on track.

If you’re interested in discussing your planning cycle or want to get more perspective on my experiences, schedule some time now on my Strengthen Your Herd page.