Strategic Planning

Consulting Process

A minimum of two consultants, with training and expertise in strategic planning, will guide the group through a comprehensive nine-step process, provide the necessary materials, and publish the results of the strategic plan. The responsibilities of the agency and key staff are to attend and participate in all of the strategic plan retreat sessions. Approximately three four-hour sessions are usually needed to complete the strategic plan process. ESC consultants will work with the group through the entire process including developing the action plans, if possible. Additionally, the consultants will follow-up to answer any questions, to make certain the action plans are completely developed, and to provide assistance as needed.

 The process used is as follows:

·        Identify core values, those that represent the foundation on which the organization is built.

·        Develop an external analysis, identifying those issues outside of the organization that could potentially affect the organization.

·        Perform an internal analysis, assessing the organization strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

·        Develop or reaffirm the mission statement.

·        Develop or validate the vision statement, where the organization would like to be in the next three or four years.

·        Identify critical issues, the gap between where the organization is today (its mission) and where it wants to be in the future (its vision).

·        Generate 5 to 9 key result areas (KRA’s).  Key results are broadly stated objectives that address issues.

·        Establish 3 to 5 objectives for each key result. Objectives are specific, measurable, and usually multi-year, with specific targets identified for each year.

·        The consultant team will get the group started and take them through as many action plans as possible. Sometimes each objective/key result is assigned to appropriate individuals/committees to develop the plans. Action Plans should address what is to be done, who is responsible, a time line and costs in terms of resources.  Action plans should be prioritized.