SRM understands the need for strategic planning processes to be both effective and efficient. We work with the client to create a work plan that can be completed in a few months, and that results in a straight-forward, practical plan. When appropriate, SRM facilitates an owner/family planning session prior to the strategic planning session to clarify their expectations regarding this asset (e.g., appetite for risk/investment; performance/dividend goals; parameters for the strategic planning process).

The process of strategic planning is as important as the plan. SRM works with you on the project from the beginning and stays with you till the very end. At SRM we ensures a “team approach” to strategic planning through:

• Meaningfully involving the organization’s key stakeholders: sponsors, board, physicians, senior management and other relevant parties;
• Eliciting board and executive staff input into the planning process to be used;
• Creating a workable, flexible plan with clear accountability for implementation.

Through these participative processes, clients clarify their mission and core values, identify their vision for the longer-term future, develop measurable goals, and create shorter term objectives.

SRM strategic planning council can be as comprehensive as the client desires, i.e., beginning with information gathering and proceeding through implementation. Or, consultants can offer targeted planning interventions on specific issues, such as new product/service development.

Typical steps in a comprehensive strategic planning engagement include:

• Convene a project initiation meeting;
• Orient the planning task force;
• Gather and analyze data / information;
• Conduct stakeholder input sessions;
• Facilitate strategic planning retreats with planning task force;
• Conduct stakeholder feedback sessions;
• Facilitate planning task force follow-up meeting;
• Prepare final strategic plan document.

SRM’s overall approach to strategic planning is to work with the client to:

• Structure a planning process that is meaningful and useful for the business;
• Secure input from owners and key management;
• Facilitate all planning meetings to ensure the client develops plans that address all critical issues;
• “Challenge” the client on strategic and business issues and decisions; and
• Ensure that the client asks all of the necessary strategic questions and considers a variety of options.

The resulting strategic plan document often has the following components:

• Mission, or fundamental purpose;
• Core values, or guidelines for behavior;
• A vision for the longer term;
• Goals, with key indicators of success;
• Objectives/Tactics – or short-term actions;
• Communication, monitoring, and updating plans.