Planning is often misconceived as merely a task of creating documents and schedules. However, its actual value lies in the process of thinking and alignment, where collaboration and negotiation play pivotal roles. Planning is not just about the end product, the plan itself, but about the journey of getting there, which involves thorough thinking, strategising, and aligning various stakeholders' interests and visions.
The essence of planning as a thinking process is to foster a shared understanding and vision among all involved parties. It's an opportunity for team members to collaborate, share insights, challenge assumptions, and explore different scenarios. This collaborative approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, leading to more robust and comprehensive strategies.
Negotiation is another critical aspect of planning, especially in environments where resources are limited and priorities may conflict. Through negotiation, teams can identify essential objectives, allocate resources efficiently, and set realistic timelines. This process helps build consensus and commitment, ensuring all team members are aligned with the plan's goals and understand their roles in executing it.
Many organisations assume that everyone knows how to plan. Is that true?
Planning should be viewed as a dynamic and interactive process that leverages the team's collective intelligence. It’s a tool for thinking and alignment, where collaboration and negotiation drive the creation of strategic plans that are realistic, achievable, and widely supported within the organisation.
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