Foreward

This handbook was written for Department of the Navy (DON) commanding officers, TQL coordinators, and strategic planning facilitators in response to the many questions about the strategic planning process and how it should be conducted within the DON. It is not intended to teach the intricacies of strategic planning, but is merely provided to answer process questions. While we cannot anticipate every question, the handbook details one way to do strategic planning that is consistent with the strategic planning model presented in the DON Senior Leader's Seminar and approved by the DON leadership through its Executive Steering Group. While this is not the only methodology, it is the one we use when working with Navy and Marine Corps organizations. To be successful, strategic planning requires commitment on the part of three people: the leader (commanding officer) of an organization, the TQL coordinator of that organization, and a strategic planning facilitator. This handbook attempts to delineate the roles and responsibilities of each and suggests a process by which the three, together, can point the organization toward its future. Strategic planning is a continuous consulting process that must be tailored to accommodate the climate of an organization. Our experience has proven that strategic planning benefits both public and private organizations.

Words of  CAUTION and  ADVICE are interspersed throughout the document and are based upon our experience with DON organizations. We hope you find it valuable as you begin your strategic planning efforts.

A Handbook for Strategic Planning  is envisioned as the first of a series of handbooks designed to assist members of the quality community in their efforts to implement TQL. The authors extend a special thanks to Mr. Pat Malone, formerly of this office, and Ms. Mary Jones, an organizational development consultant, for their valuable support and encouragement throughout this project.

 

Denise L. Wells Director, Information Resources Center DON TQL Office

Linda M. Doherty, Ph.D. Director DON TQL Office