Question 1

So now, after we've been talking strategically during this whole course, we get to go back down into the details as we think about implementing a strategic plan.

After completing our week 5 readings, select one of the following and prepare a short post (approximately 200 words) in your own words that describes how the item you selected is or should be related to and informed by an organization's strategic plan:

• Annual budget

• Staff work plans

• Training program

• External communications

• Organizational chart/structure

• Human resources and benefits policies

Please make it clear early in your post which item you are addressing.

Question 2

Prepare a short explanation in your own words of why and how the organization vision is related to implementation of the strategic plan. Use at least one reference to the text or another credible source in your response.

Question 3

For this assignment, create a strategic planning process for an organization (your current organization or one with which you are familiar -- could be an agency, company, educational institution, or non-profit or community organization). Describe and explain in your own words how the organization will use the strategic planning process we have studied during this course, and explain the purpose/value of each step.

This assignment can be as real as you want to make it (it can be as a project for the organization for which you currently work, or it can be a process for an ideal organization we can all wish to work for; I suggest making it evident at the beginning if this is a real or hypothetical organization).

Make sure to be strategic in your thinking and in the process. Cover the key steps outlined in the textbook and how they will be carried out/conducted as part of your organization's strategic planning process. In the organization's strategic plan, how will goals and strategies be organized?

Include reference citations to key guidance, references, and examples using APA Style. While substance is more important than length for this assignment, it is expected that at least 500 words will be needed to address strategic planning concepts and their application.

Question 4

Thinking strategically individually or as an organization can be challenging. Identify one challenge to thinking strategically and implementing a strategic plan in your current organization or an organization with which you are familiar, and then identify and describe at least one means or approach to address or work through the challenge. Be as realistic and specific as possible in your response of approximately 200 words.