We just completed the season for local government strategic planning.

I’ve seen and used many different strategies for the strategic planning process. Brainstorming sessions are great fun, looking at possibilities.

As we start to drill down our brainstorming into goals, hopefully actionable, SMART goals, the more real our planning becomes.

Stating the goals, listing the objectives, and identifying the milestones are all necessary elements to your strategic plan.

I’ve see so many great plans brought to this point. Strategic plan done, check that box! However, the plan means nothing if there is not strategic doing.

Strategic doing is where the real work begins. We need to pull the plan off of the shelf and put the pedal to the medal. It is time to start doing the strategy.

The strategy I find most effective in this action planning process is:

1. Start with the end goal in mind. For example, if you were to complete Project A in 12 months, determine what success looks like at the completion of that goal.

2. Next, determine what needs to be done in month 11 to reach your goal in 12 months.

3. Then determine what needs to be done in month 10 to reach month 11 deliverables.

4. Determine what needs to be done in month 9 to reach month 10 deliverables.

5. Continue this process until you’ve identified the necessary actions for the current month.

6. Identify who is responsible for each of the deliverables needed each month.

7. Agree to how reporting will be communicated and how often.

8. Celebrate, celebrate, celebrate! Make sure to celebrate the small wins along the way as well as the big wins at the completion of your goal. This keeps energy up and focus tight.

As always, I love to hear from you. What are some tactics you use for strategic doing?

With Love and To Your Success,

Maria