Strategic planning
Instructor:
Tom Shanahan
Year 1
Introduction to strategic planning
This class is placed at the end of the first week because it ties together concepts
from previous classes. During this class, you will examine the structure of the
strategic-planning process. This is accomplished through readings from and discussions
about
The Executive Guide to Strategic Planning. Using this book as a guide, you
will evaluate strategic-planning processes in your company. Planning always is taking
place regardless of the formality level of the process, but whether it's strategic
or effective is a question you'll be asked to consider. Many firms spend a lot of
resources on strategic planning only to find that their well-crafted vision and
mission statements turn out to be nothing more than something to print on a business
card. You will be challenged to compare and contrast methods; debate success stories;
and create a vision and mission statement for your company or areas of responsibility.
Year 2
Strategic planning
During the second year, the class is divided into two parts. The first part looks
at the effects of culture on planning and execution. The second part is devoted
to understanding "visioning." All successful leaders are able to cast a vision that
others not only see but believe in. How does that happen? One thing everyone seems
to agree on is that successful leaders are incredibly passionate about their particular
vision. What is your vision for your company? Where does your passion lie? Are they
aligned? We'll look at this and discuss how to get there or make improvements through
effective use of the strategic-planning process.