Examine aspects of planning within an industry/organization.

Examination should include

  • development of vision and mission statements
  • setting of performance goals and objectives
  • review of previous performance (e.g., productivity, profit)
  • evaluation of current assets
  • formulation of strategic and operational plans
  • use of planning tools (e.g., market research, budget analysis, decision-making models, competitive analyses)
  • determination of human, natural, technology, and capital resource needs
  • forecasting of trends
  • anticipation of changes in the business climate (e.g., economic factors, laws, regulations, taxes)
  • anticipation of and compensation for organizational and industry risk.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • Where can you find examples of strategic plans that align with a business or industry in your area of interest?
  • What lessons can you learn by comparing successful and unsuccessful businesses?
  • What might be some consequences of inadequate business planning?

Suggested Learning Activities:

Planning Elements: An Organization's Values

Objective: Examine the influence of values-based behaviors on performance, productivity, and relationships.

Materials: Worksheet for each student, Download An Organization's Values,

and Download Teacher Notes

Planning Elements: The Power of Vision and Mission

Objective: Describe the importance that vision and mission statements have for organizations.

Materials: Worksheet for each student, Download The Power of Vision and Mission,

and Download Teacher Notes