Introduction

A strategy-less organization is akin to a directionless vessel. Without a clear path and understanding of their destination, how can organizations consistently deliver outstanding value to their stakeholders and customers? They simply cannot, which highlights the critical importance of strategic planning. Strategy involves setting lofty objectives, comprehending both the current and anticipated environmental conditions, and charting a course for the organization. This course outlines the seven key stages of strategic management, from the initial 'thinking' phase to 'planning' and finally 'execution.' Upon completion, participants will be equipped to deploy or refine strategic processes within their organizations to fulfill their vision and accomplish their mission.

Course Objectives

• Utilize strategic thinking to evaluate the current environment and define organizational goals.
• Harness the strategic management process to effectively realize these goals.
• Select and evaluate strategies that ensure a lasting competitive edge.
• Establish strategic goals, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and 'SMART' targets.
• Transform strategic frameworks into actionable plans by initiating strategic projects and planning sequential activities.
• Engage in the performance management cycle to confirm the successful implementation of selected strategies.

Target Audience

• Senior Executives and Leaders
• Strategic Planners and Analysts
• Project Managers and Team Leaders
• Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
• Management Consultants
• Board Members and Corporate Governance Officials
• HR Professionals
• Marketing Managers
• Non-Profit Sector Leaders

Course Outlines

Day 1: Foundations of Strategic Thinking and Planning

• Exploration of strategic methodologies.
• Overview of strategic management processes.
• Comparative analysis of strategic thinking and strategic planning.
• Advantages of strategic management.
• Debunking common strategy myths. Environmental Analysis
• Application of Porter’s Five Forces model.
• Strategies for value creation and capture.
• Execution of a SWOT analysis.
• Identifying internal strengths and weaknesses.
• Recognizing external opportunities and threats.
• Introduction to the PEDESTL framework.
• Mastering strategic analysis techniques.

Day 2: Vision, Mission, and Organizational Values

• Practical use of vision and mission statements.
• Crafting and defining vision statements.
• Crafting and defining mission statements.
• Adoption and integration of core organizational values.
• Effective communication of vision, mission, and values.

Day 3: Strategic Decision-Making

• Core objectives of competitive strategy.
• Overview of Porter’s generic strategies.
• Examination of the industry value chain.
• Innovation within the value chain.
• Building a sustainable competitive advantage.

Day 4: Strategic Goals and Performance Metrics

• Promoting strategic alignment within the organization.
• Formulation of strategic objectives.
• Implementation of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC).
• Application of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Characteristics of effective KPIs.
• Development of various types of KPIs.
• Establishment of SMART targets.

Day 5: Implementation and Operational Planning

• Transition from strategic vision to operational action plans.
• Criteria for successful action plans.
• Creation of strategic and departmental initiatives.
• Strategic execution management.
• Overview of control processes.
• Reporting and analysis through KPI dashboards.