Summary:

Although thinking strategically and planning strategically are two different concepts, they are quite interrelated and complementary. Planning strategically involves a systematic programming of pre-identified strategies and thinking strategically involves a more integrated perspective of the organization.

When thinking strategically, it is not the specific details of the future that is needed; instead, one must only have an idea of what the future will be. Additionally, through strategic thinking, executives, managers, and supervisors are able to understand that there is a link between change and strategy. This helps to understand that identifying new strategic options and then needing to implement them successfully can become quite a challenge.

Article Quote:

“Strategic thinking can be explained through seven dimensions. These seven dimensions are as follows: vision of the future, strategic formulation and implementation, managerial role in making strategies, control, managerial role in implementation, strategy making, and process and outcome.”

Link: http://becomingwhoyouwanttobe.com/2010/03/a-closer-look-at-strategic-thinking/

Implementing strategy is often constrained by resistance to change within the organization. People are comfortable with what they know and the processes that are already in place. Shaking up the comfort level with a new direction for the company poses quite a challenge for leadership.

Leadership first needs to be committed to the plan if they expect others to get behind it. Next, delivery of the plan should include clearly defined objectives, broken down into actionable tasks that easily integrate into daily to-do’s. This allows individuals to not only understand the strategic goals, but also their part in bringing the plan to action, also increasing accountability.

For more on strategic planning, see http://www.performancesolutionstech.com/category/strategicplanning/