Intro to Planning - Unit 5

Question 1

What is planning?

Answer 1

• Process of setting objectives and determining how to best accomplish them
• If planning is done properly, it sets the stage for organizing, leading and controlling

Question 2

What are the objectives?

Answer 2

They identify the specific results or desired outcomes that one intends to achieve

Question 3

What are SMART goals?

Answer 3

Specific - What exact goal do you wish to accomplish?

Measurable - How will you measure your progress or know you’ve reached your goal?
Attainable/achievable - What skills or outside help will you need to reach your goal?
Realistic - Is this goal worthwhile? Is it the right time to accomplish it?
Timely - When will you complete the goal?

Question 4

What is a plan?

Answer 4

A statement of action steps to be taken in order to accomplish the objectives

Question 5

The planning process:

Answer 5

1. Define objectives
   - Identify desired outcomes
   - SMART
2. Determine where you stand versus objectives
   - What strengths work in your favor?
   - What weaknesses hold you back?
3. Anticipate future events
   - Generate alternative “scenarios”
   - Identify things that help or hinder progress toward objectives
4. Analyze and choose action alternatives
   - Evaluate possible actions
   - Choose alternative likely to accomplish objectives
   - Weight the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative accordingly
   - Select best alternative
5. Implement and evaluate results
   - Measure progress towards objectives
   - Do what plan requires
   - Evaluate results
   - Take corrective actions and revise plans as needed