Recently I had a conversation about strategic planning with a past higher education client. We discussed the challenge in staying on course when taking action on a strategic plan. The time commitment to develop an actionable strategic plan is not small. However, the real challenge lies in implementation. Our conversation reminded me of an interview I did a few years ago.
I had the pleasure of being interviewed on The Business Dig, a blog radio show hosted by Lisa Kanda and Debra Frey, Our discussion focused on challenges in successful strategic plan implementation and steps to get back on track. The focus of this interview was not necessarily on strategic planning in higher education, however the message is applicable.
Has it been awhile since you’ve reviewed your strategic plan? Here is a link to listen to how to get back to your plan. Strategic Planning CPR: How to Breath Life Back into your Strategic Plan
The four steps below are highlights from the interview to get back to taking action on your strategic plan.
Regroup
Dust off your strategic plan and take a hard look at it. If it’s been one or two quarters since you last reviewed the document, organize a review session (ideally a half-day retreat) with a committee of key administrative or academic representatives from your school or department. The goal is to re-engage. Consider the goals listed in the plan and discuss where you are today.
Refine Plan
Does the plan in its current state resonate with where you want to be in the next 18 months? If not, how can the goals and initiatives be adjusted? What are five key actions that need to take place in the next quarter to get started?
Take Action
The next steps are pure action planning. Designate an owner of the plan to steer implementation. Discuss and allocate resources needed. Define and agree on immediate next steps for implementation.
Report Progress Regularly
Create a strategic plan dashboard to track progress on key initiatives. How will progress be communicated? What is the communication mechanism? Who is accountable for managing communication? Who is included on the distribution list?
Questions about starting a strategic planning initiative at your institution or department? Contact me at [email protected].
