A plan is only as good as its outcomes. Here’s how to track progress and ensure your strategy is delivering results.
It’s easy to feel good about a strategic plan when it’s fresh. But the real test is whether it delivers results.
How do you know if your strategic plan is working?
First, set clear metrics from the start. What does success look like?
These metrics should be SMART (i.e. specific, measurable, actionable, relevant to your your overall vision, and timebound). We recommend doing this quarterly – any longer is too long for people to stay focussed on.
Without clear metrics, you’re just guessing whether your strategy is effective.
Next, track progress regularly – fortnightly, or even weekly, is ideal. Don’t wait until the end of the quarter (or year 😱!) to review your plan’s effectiveness.
Regular check-ins allow you to make adjustments before small issues become big problems.
It’s also important to gather feedback from your team.
Are they encountering obstacles? Do they see missed opportunities? Their insights can help you refine your approach and make your plan even more effective.
Review and adjust your strategy as needed. The operating environment changes. And your strategic plan should be flexible enough to adapt.
Finally, celebrate your successes. Recognising achievements – even small ones – keeps your team engaged with the strategy.
A strategic plan is only as good as the impact it delivers.
By measuring success, tracking progress and making adjustments along the way, you can ensure your strategy delivers the desired results.
Want to develop a simple strategic plan for your team or organisation?
Try our Impact Society Strategic Planning Toolkit. Download a free version here.
Impact Society
Strategic Planning Toolkit
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New. Launch a straightforward strategic plan in under 30 days. A step-by-step guide for CEOs, team managers, founders and strategy professionals. Includes 130+ page guidebook and templates, checklists and agendas.
