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The Strategic Planning Paradox

Most well-run companies do strategic planning. It’s that time each year when the business leaders go offsite to set the course for the future. Very smart. But some organizations struggle with the strategic planning paradox. That’s the choice between keep going fast vs. slowing down to go even faster. Whether you are in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kentucky, Jacksonville, Florida or anywhere in America, discover why the choice is clear.

The temptation to keep going fast

Things are working. People are in place. Customers are happy. The company is doing OK. Everyone is busy and moving fast.

It is very tempting to just keep doing what you’re doing. After all, it’s working. Plus, things change, so the strategic planning blueprint would likely just get scrapped later, right?

Slow down to go faster

There’s an old carpenter’s adage that says, “measure twice and cut once.” It applies to strategic planning, too. Only in general business today, the “measure twice” part is now “focus, think, discuss and debate.”

The world is changing at a rapid pace. Disruption is everywhere. If you keep doing the same old thing, eventually someone will figure out how to leapfrog ahead of you.

The strategic planning process is all about taking a step back. Slowing things down. Turning off your phones. Bringing in new voices and insights. Imagining the future. Putting all the pieces together to create a roadmap to achieve your greatest success. And going even faster.

Change is inevitable

Of course, things will change throughout the year. Economic conditions get better or worse. New competitors emerge and while others go out of business.

And the businesses that have gone through the strategic planning process will be better positioned to respond. They will hold regular follow up meetings to monitor progress and the competitive landscape. And they will quickly make the necessary adjustments.

Krissi Barr of Barr Corporate Success

Krissi Barr has led and facilitated hundreds of strategic planning sessions. She’s worked with companies large and small, public and private, for profit and not for profit, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kentucky, Jacksonville, Florida and all over America. If you want your next strategic planning session to have the greatest possible impact, contact Krissi to find out how she can dispel the strategic planning paradox. And help your company  go faster and succeed.