Strategic Planning & Alignment

From Planning to Alignment

Defining the “big picture” in any organization means setting focused goals and isolating the most important strategies for getting them done.  Certainly, planning (and measuring) the execution of these strategies is critical.

​Unfortunately, strategic plans are too often focused on annual goals and objectives. They measure year-end performance outcomes, and are sometimes even assessed on a "yes/no" scale (Did it get done or didn't it?). Objectives are developed by top management, tasks are assigned to various people, boxes are checked, and the document is placed on a shelf to collect dust. It can feel a little disheartening.

The good news is that Strategic Planning processes can become powerful management tools when:

• People are inputs, not just consequences
• Objectives are specific, measurable, and controllable
• Strategies are measured for how well and to what degree they are implemented
• Measures are easy to collect and organic to the work
• Measures are tracked frequently, not just at year-end
• Measures are weighted and tied to overall effectiveness
• Priorities show precisely how to get the most "bang for your buck"

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Our Strategic Alignment methods are based on over 30 years of organizational behavior research. They help organizations define a big picture that aligns with the needs and priorities of the people that make it happen. They help leaders outline, measure, and prioritize strategies. And they show people how to work smarter, not harder.

ALIGN for Education

Our approach to Strategic Alignment in school districts – ALIGN – syncs district-level goals and strategies with those of the Teachers and School Leaders critical to your district’s success.  

Learn more about ALIGN.

​Want to get started?

Contact us and start aligning your strategies today.