Reference no: EM131880860

Question 1

Conceptual and practical

Our text covers both theories of strategic planning and practical steps that can be implemented. Choose from one of the following two topics on which to post in this discussion by midnight Wednesday:

Topic a: Consider the following quotation from the beginning of chapter 3:

"Indeed, strategic planning and management at their best involve "real learning [that] takes place at the interface of thought and action, as actors reflect on what they have done; in other words, strategic learning must combine reflection with result... [They] involve crafting the subtle relationships between thought and action, control and learning, stability and change" (Mintzberg, Ahlstrand, & Lampel, 2009." (Bryson, 2011, p. 84)

What does this mean?

Topic b: Chapter 3 presents the importance of a initial agreement as a starting point for strategic planning. Explain in your own words what this is, why it is important, and what might be covered in the initial agreement.

Question 2

Looking at a strategic plan

Find an organization's strategic plan (for your jurisdiction, where you work, or through Internet research). It can be for a public, private, or non-profit organization.

Describe the content of the plan and how it aligns with the guidance in our readings. Identify who/what were involved in developing and implementing the plan and how they may have contributed to strategic thinking. Who are the stakeholders?

Submit your short paper of at least 250 words

Question 3

Strategic planning team

Explain in your own words why it is a good idea to include three levels of the organization, including "...top policy and decision makers, middle management, and technical core or frontline personnel" (Bryson, 2011, p. 93) in the strategic planning process. Also address whether people outside the organization should be included in the process.

Question 4

Mission and vision

After completing this week's reading, prepare a short paper that explains in your own words what a mission statement is and what a vision statement is, how they are different, and the role of each in strategic planning.

Address why Bryson prefers developing or revisiting the organization's vision later (after mission and strategy development) in the strategic planning process.

Cite the text and any other reference sources you use with in-text citations and a reference list using APA Style for formatting. Submit your paper of at least 250 words