In essence, strategic planning is about changing from a current state to a desired future state. The better you can understand and articulate both, the easier it is to identify the necessary changes (Strategies and Tactics) that will be needed to move from current state to future state. This is where information and analysis play […]
When we think of information, we often think of numbers, data, maybe even statistical methods that can help us assess the numbers. This kind of quantitative information is critical to leading and managing organizations and work units. But there is another kind of information, more qualitative in nature, which is also very valuable in research […]
Since many organizations have fiscal years that end somewhere between December and June, Fall through early Winter is a popular time of year for convening stakeholders to create or update a Strategic Plan. And, if you are considering engaging in Strategic Planning this Fall, now is the time to begin preparing. The preparation is critical […]
Listening to an early summer storm the other evening, I heard one of the longest sustained rolls of distant thunder I have ever heard. I am sure it lasted at least 20 seconds, and I was struck by how long it took to completely fade out. But it did. And before too long, there was […]
We tend to think of process improvement as deeply entrenched in the day to day operations of a work group or organization. And with good reason. History has shown there is a lot of room for improvement at this most detailed level of work. Still, that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities at other levels as […]
In Focus Groups, we are usually asking questions about a current product or service or one that is in development. However, they can be an effective tool for learning more about what unmet needs and wants your customers may have. Going further, they can help you and your customers begin to identify needs and wants […]
You see them everywhere this time of year. “Predictions for the New Year.” “Annual Trends Update.” “Our Forecast for 2018.” It seems as though suddenly there is no shortage of insight and ability to predict what lies ahead for your organization or profession. Will they be right? Does it matter? It is pretty easy to […]
As the calendar year draws to a close in December, you’ll probably find yourself getting into review mode. If December is also the end of your fiscal year, the review will likely be pretty structured and include financials, operating measures, and organizational and personal objectives. Even if it’s not the end of your fiscal year, […]
Fall is a popular time for Strategic Planning. As the calendar year (and in some cases, the fiscal year) draw to a close, it can be a good time to assess progress, examine position, and determine priorities for the coming year. No wonder, then, that most of the focus is on developing, or updating, the […]
A good friend and colleague of mine has the following quote at the end of his e-mail signature block: “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” – Anotoine De Saint-Exupery As a consultant specializing in Strategic Planning, you can well imagine how much I like this quote. It is a great endorsement of […]
