Strategic Planning

ACCORD understands the need for strategic planning processes to be both effective and efficient. We work with the client to create a work plan that can be completed in a few months, and that results in a straight-forward, practical plan. When appropriate, ACCORD facilitates an owner/family planning session prior to the strategic planning session to clarify their expectations regarding this asset (e.g., appetite for risk/investment; performance/dividend goals; parameters for the strategic planning process).

ACCORD's overall approach to strategic planning is to work with the client to:

• Structure a planning process that is meaningful and useful for the business;
• Secure input from owners and key management;
• Facilitate all planning meetings to ensure the client develops plans that address all critical issues;
• "Challenge" the client on strategic and business issues and decisions; and
• Ensure that the client asks all of the necessary strategic questions and considers a variety of options.

These steps are typical to most ACCORD strategic planning engagements.

• Initiate planning and gather data;
• Facilitate strategic planning retreats;
• Prepare strategic plan report;
• Conduct follow-up session;
• Conduct quarterly or semi-annual follow-up meetings.

The resulting strategic plan document often has the following components:

• Mission, or fundamental purpose;
• Core values, or guidelines for behavior;
• A vision for the longer term;
• Goals, with key indicators of success;
• Objectives/Tactics - or short-term actions;
• Communication, monitoring, and updating plans.