Strategic Planning |
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Strategic Planning Philosophy
We pride ourselves on helping organizations with whom we have the privilege of working to succeed. Within the context of strategic planning, our belief is that strategic plans should be bold and ambitious on one hand, but grounded in reality on the other. We help organizations to be the very best they can, but not to develop plans that are unrealistic.
Our philosophy also involves what we call “activist facilitation” – in which we help guide organizations toward the best conclusion, not a consensus position. Based on our experience (and through the learning we gain from the environmental analysis work we undertake on our clients’ behalf) we develop a point of view on what could be best for the organization, and unapologetically share it. We bring our learning from other sectors and other contexts to you to help yield better results.
Strategic Planning Overview
We begin all engagements with objective setting sessions. Taking the time to clearly define objectives at the beginning of any engagement yields a better result and, ultimately, saves time.
Following this session, we provide a summary of the discussion outlining our objectives and a detailed project schedule as to how we propose fulfilling the objectives.
While we have strong views on the optimal strategic planning process, we customize each plan to fit each of our client’s needs, taking into consideration their resources, context, and aspirations.
The steps below provide a high level overview of MacPhie & Company’s strategic planning model.
1. Research and Environmental Analysis – The Environment Shaping Choices and Resources: The foundation of our approach is based on an analysis of the internal and external environment facing the organization. Our approach is designed to identify the most salient and material factors that will impact the future of the organization, which ensures the other components of the strategic plan are both realistic and based upon the most relevant factors.
2. Values, Vision & Mission – Why The Organization Exists: Core to developing a strategic plan is articulating what the organization’s values are which then enables the development of its vision and mission statements. Together, the values, vision and mission statements provide the general direction and overall purpose of the organization.
3. Strategic Objectives – Focuses Goals We Choose To Pursue: With the foundation precisely defined, strategic objectives are high-level areas of focus that deliver on the vision and mission.
4. Priorities – Things We Need To Do To Achieve Our Strategic Objectives: Supporting each strategic objective is a set of priorities. These priorities are concrete ways in which strategic objectives will be achieved. The priorities lead to an actionable set of tasks.
5. Action Plans – How We Implement Our Priorities: Once the strategic objectives and priorities are set, the people responsible for delivering results are tasked with creating action plans. These action plans outline key tasks to be completed, resource implications, metrics, timelines, and the individuals responsible for the work.
6. Implement – Implementing the Plans: With the action plans created, staff members are able to implement the plan, and the Board is given tools to evaluate progress.
Testimonials
" I have been singularly impressed with the calibre of MacPhie & Company’s service over the years."
Executive Director of a Major Ontario-Based Health Care Organization