Strategic Planning Is More Important Than Ever In 2021

The pandemic has transformed how businesses operate and completely changed the sense of normalcy for consumers and businesses alike. Now more than ever, businesses must adequately plan for how they intend to grow and succeed this year.  
 
The Importance Of Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is an essential process for every business as it outlines your company’s future goals and exactly how you will strive to achieve them over the year. Through the creation of measurable, time-based micro-goals, you can pinpoint exactly what was instrumental your business success and what went wrong.  By identifying what is working for your business and what is not, you can improve your business’ performance and productivity.

Strategic Planning For COVID-19

Last year, many businesses found their strategic plans to be severely disrupted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst businesses are currently on the road to recovery, a second wave could strike at any moment. By engaging in strategic planning for a second wave of COVID-19, you can identify what your business needs to survive the pandemic restrictions and how to improve from the initial pandemic response. 

You may need to look at your business’ revenue streams to find ways to survive even if a core function of your business is impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. A large part of this will also include looking at your suppliers and determining how your business would be affected if your suppliers were to experience a second wave. 

Strategic Planning For Growth

Even in the absence of a second wave, your business has likely lost a year in its pathway to growth. Your strategic plan for 2021 should re-examine your previous goals and compare it with what you have learned in operating a business during a pandemic. This could include accelerating the digitization of your business, diversifying your sources of revenue, or shifting your method of service delivery. The need to adapt business operations so quickly in 2020 has provided a unique perspective on how to drive your business growth in the new normal. 

As much as we try to predict the future, last year’s COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we may need to pivot our business at a moment’s notice. By engaging in comprehensive strategic planning in 2021, you can provide your business with a roadmap to a successful and prosperous year, whilst also planning to respond effectively to a potential second wave of COVID-19.

Want to dive deeper into Strategic Planning for 2021? 

You are invited to Business the Ready Over Brekkie workshop on Wednesday February 24th, 2021. This free two-hour workshop will guide you through the process of completing a Business Model Canvas. This visual chart will help you set your plans, goals and ensure you are prepared for 2021. 
Reserve your spot here. 

*This event will be held in person and online. However, if lockdown is extended, or restrictions are introduced, it will be delivered online only.