Ask the Expert 10-7-07

Experts seem to agree on the fine points of an effective planning process:

• The core planning team should probably include no more than 6 to 10 persons, the maximum number for full and productive discussion, according to research studies.

• Some participation in the early planning by line managers and senior staff is essential to obtaining their buy-in.

• Although the CEO has to be an active participant in the planning, he or she could appoint a process leader to chair the meetings and oversee agenda details. The person should have sufficient stature and objectivity for the job. (Company trainers and human resources managers often make good facilitators).

• Many CEOs make the mistake of turning over the implementation of the plan to a committee. Only the CEO can drive the process.

• Communicate details of the plan to different stakeholders selectively. The board of directors and senior managers have to see the whole thing, but lower level employees may just need a summary of objectives and what’s most relevant to their work. If you let key suppliers and customers know about your goals and objectives, be careful not to give away points of strategy that could be leaked to competitors.

The answer provided is an excerpt from Strategic Planning for the Time Challenged, by Howard Muson and is published by The Conference Board. Additional information about The Conference Board can be found at www.conference-board.org.