Question 1. We have discussed different types of plans in class. Many plans developed by organizations and classified as strategic plans are really not strategic plans. How would you define a strategic plan for your organization? What components should be included in the planning efforts and the final plan? How are operational plans defined, and what do they contain?

Question 2. In the public and not-for-profit sectors, there are many more individuals and groups who impact on the functions or the organization than in the private sector. In the public and not-for-profit sectors, these are called stakeholders. These stakeholders also impact any planning process that the organization undertakes. What role should they play in the process? What does the organization need to do to engage them in the process? How will success be determined?

Question 3. Vision and mission statements provide information about the organization. They appear in strategic and operational plans. How do you define vision and mission statements? How should they be developed and used?