We need the whole brain engaged in the planning process, from top tier to front line and from outsourced provider to internal technician. A viable solution borne from multidisciplinary teams is one benefit of robust involvement but the real reward is the commitment of implementation that it secures. People support what they help create.

Great visions capture how others will see your organization in the future. When written from an outsider’s perspective it helps everyone in the organization focus on the implicit question: what do we need to do for an outsider to say this with conviction? We need to sustain an elevated perspective to keep the plan working and the workers planning.

Many strategic plans lay out the vision, mission and goals, but where many fall short is gearing those down to vital metrics and targets.  What’s the what?  What will you measure that captures the value being delivered to customers or community? By measuring what matters we quickly arrive at strategic objectives to drive improvement.