Business Management/Leadership and Strategy

Methods of Gathering Data for Strategic Planning Purposes using SWOT and PEST Analysis

Audio:

 

The Importance of Data Collection in the Strategic Planning Process

Strategic planning is essential for any organization to successfully execute its goals and targets. A strategic plan creates a framework from which decisions can be made on how to allocate an organization’s resources, address challenges, and maximize opportunities that arise along the way. According to the United Nations’ Strategic Planning Guide for Managers, “…strategic planning is about understanding the challenges, trends, and issues; …and determining the most effective and efficient way possible to achieve the mandate” (United Nations, 2015). http://hr.un.org

One of the most important aspects involved in the design of any strategic plan is data collection. Data collection is the process of gathering information and facts which would help an organization come up with a long-term or short-term strategic plan. According to Bryant (1997), “An effective strategic plan requires, as a first step, the fairly rigorous collection of information, with analysis and development of issues.”

In short, managers need to collect data to better understand the organization’s current position in the market. Data collection is also important in identifying market trends and needs as well as changing demographics. With this information, managers can assess the ability of their organizations to meet current and future demands.

The Importance of Data Collection Prior to Creating a Strategic Plan

There needs to be an assessment of the internal and external factors which will influence the business before defining primary points, issues, and focus to be used in the creation of the strategic plan. This is done through data collection.

Team Building for Managers

Your organization’s people are its greatest asset, and when they work together as a team they accomplish even more. But teamwork doesn’t just happen. Teams have to be created, developed, and continuously nurtured. A solid team building strategy can create an environment of greater collaboration and collegiality, which is good not only for the bottom line for your people themselves. There are many different ways to build a team, and to continue fostering a sense of teamwork. Developing a diverse team building tool kit helps your people grow at every stage.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

What Are the Benefits of Team Building?

 

Types of Team Building Activities

 

Games

 

More Team Building Games

 

Activities

 

More Team Building Activities

 

Social Gatherings

 

Common Mistakes When Team Building

 

Formatting a Team Building Plan

 

Evaluate

 

Talent Management: 10 Audio Chapters and E-Book

Talent management is essential to the success of any organization. Leaders need to recruit, train, and retain qualified employees. Providing incentives and developing individuals is the difference between engaging people and merely employing them. Investing in talent management will provide financial benefits as it improves the company’s culture.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

Defining Talent

 

Understanding Talent Management

 

Performance Management

 

Talent Reviews

 

Succession & Career Planning

 

Engagement

 

Competency Assessments

 

Coaching, Training & Development

 

Dos and Don’ts

 

Employee Retention

 

Supply Chain Management: 10 Audio Chapters and E-Book

Supply Chain Management improves the coordination and relationship between Suppliers, Producers, and Customers. It must be kept at a high level of organization to be successful in today’s global economy. Goods and services are now pieced together from all over the world, and this process can be hectic and complicated if not managed correctly.

With Supply Chain Management your company and employees will be on target to lower costs, improving efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

Why Supply Chain Management?

 

Key Terms (I)

 

Key Terms (II)

 

Three Levels of Supply Chain Management

 

Five Stages of Supply Chain Management

 

The Flows of Supply Chain Management

 

Inventory Management

 

Supply Chain Groups

 

Tracking and Monitoring

 

Supply Chain Event Management

 

Risk Assessment and Management: 10 Audio Chapters and E-Book

Risk assessment and management is essential for the success of any business. However, many companies do not always take the necessary precautions, which leads to disaster. Successfully managing risks will prevent mistakes, which leads to a safer work environment, happier employees, and increased productivity. Following a few basic steps will place your organization on the path to success.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

Identifying Hazards and Risks

 

Seeking Out Problems Before They Happen (I)

 

Seeking Out Problems Before They Happen (II)

 

Everyone’s Responsibility

 

Tracking and Updating Control Measures

 

Risk Management Techniques

 

General Office Safety and Reporting

 

Business Impact Analysis

 

Disaster Recovery Plan

 

Summary of Risk Assessment

 

Performance Management: 10 Audio Chapters and E-Book

Performance Management is not a company’s way of employing “micro-managing” techniques that stunt the professional growth of its employees. But rather, it is a strategic approach to ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization. Whether at the organizational, departmental or employee level, the goal of performance management is to make sure all business goals are being met in a satisfactorily manner.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

The Basics (I)

 

The Basics (II)

 

Goal Setting

 

Establishing Performance Goals

 

360 Degree Feedback

 

Competency Assessments

 

Kolb’s Learning Cycle

 

Motivation

 

The Performance Journal

 

Creating a Performance Plan

 

Negotiation Skills Workshop: 10 Audio Chapters and E-Book

Although people often think of boardrooms, suits, and million dollar deals when they hear the word “negotiation,” the truth is that we negotiate all the time. For example, have you ever:

  • Decided where to eat with a group of friends?
  • Decided on chore assignments with your family?
  • Asked your boss for a raise?

These are all situations that involve negotiating! This book will give you an understanding of the phases of negotiation, tools to use during a negotiation, and ways to build win-win solutions for all those involved.

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CONTENTS

Preface

 

Understanding Negotiation

 

Getting Prepared

 

Laying the Groundwork

 

Phase One — Exchanging Information

 

Phase Two — Bargaining

 

About Mutual Gain

 

Phase Three — Closing

 

Dealing with Difficult Issues

 

Negotiating Outside the Boardroom

 

Negotiating on Behalf of Someone Else