STRATEGIC PLANNING

• The objective is to explain things Simply and with Clarity
• As Albert Einstein would say “if you can’t explain it to a 6-year old, you don’t understand it yourself.”
• Strategy is the roadmap to guide you to success

1. Fundamental Principles – Core Values
   • 5 or fewer:
     • What is the value system of YOUR COMPANY?
     • What beliefs does YOUR COMPANY operate on?
     • Does YOUR COMPANY’s values match their member’s values?
   • Create a story to go along with the Principles
     • How do these principles/values come alive?
     • What do they really mean?
     • What are the behaviours associated with these values?

2. Purpose Statement (not Mission) – YOUR COMPANY’s “Why”
   • 7 Words or less
     • Tag Line that is easy to remember
     • Purpose builds engagement & ownership
     • Purpose helps integrate Emotion with logic
     • What Story does it tell? What belief does it inspire?

3. BHAG – Big Hairy Audacious Goal (10-30 years from now)
   • What will YOUR COMPANY look like in 10-30 years
   • Measurable, Time-Bound

4. Vision Statement (Picture) – 12-36 months
   • Time bound, Aspirational, “a stretch”
   • Needs to be compelling
   • How does it move the organization?
   • Once the goal has been met, then update
   • Needs to be communicated every day
   • Create a story that explains

5. Strategic Compass – only pick one to focus on
   • Innovation of Product or Service – Apple, Google
   • Customer Experience – Starbucks, Southwest, Disney, Zappos
   • Operational Efficiency – McDonalds, FedEx, DELL, Amazon
   • Operational Quality – Honda, Rolex, Cat, Toyota

6. Strategy – The “How”
   • Less than 5 strategies
     • If more than 3 strategies, organizations/associations fail
   • Links Opportunities, Weaknesses, Purpose, Principles, Vision
   • How do we get to our Vision?
   • How do we get everyone aligned?
   • What needs to change to support our Vision?
   • What needs to happen to enhance the Culture at YOUR COMPANY?

7. Key Priorities/Rocks – Action Plan for each Strategy (no more than 3 for each)
   • What is the action to support each strategy?
   • Who will spearhead the action and be accountable to its success?
   • When will it be accomplished by?
   • What is the end measure or Lagging Indicator?

For more information on how to create a Strategic Plan for your company, contact Nathan at nathan@southbrookmc.com.