We begin by listening — closely and intently — to our clients and to the people within the client organization. Through that listening process we develop a full understanding of the objectives of the planning exercise in which we will be involved, as well as of the issues that will affect the outcomes.
Typically, we undertake initial research to help us understand current performance and direction. We review such documents as:
- Historical financial statements and other performance reports
- Current budgets and marketing plans
- Strategic and business plans
- Valuation reports
Often, we conduct external research to gather such data as:
- Sector trends and statistics
- Competitor and peer organization analysis
- Market research
We also consult with such key external stakeholders as: Customers, Suppliers, Investors, Community Representatives, and Government Representatives.
Most frequently, an integral component of our planning services is facilitation of a planning session involving the management team of the client organization. These sessions can vary in duration and often are conducted over several days at off-site locations.
Reporting is designed specifically to meet the needs of each client. Typically, a strategic business plan, financial model and implementation plan will include:
- Strategies to achieve defined business goals, objectives and targets
- Operations – processes and capacities required to implement adopted strategies
- People – organizational governance and structure, leadership, skills, capabilities and staffing needed to ‘operations’ can be carried out effectively
- Financial projections – summary or detailed
- Tactical action plans needed to support plan implementation
- Transition plans related to adoption of new approaches, if required
The value of any planning initiative must be measured in terms of changes and outcomes – the performance improvement that results from the planning process. It is at this stage that many planning exercises fail to achieve expected and desired outcomes. To address this shortcoming, Halifax Global can provide assistance with implementation planning, including:
- A disciplined approach to implementation plan follow up and progress tracking updates
- Accountability for executing actions committed to during the planning process
- Incorporation of implementation updates into the organization’s ongoing management meetings
- Direct linkage between the planning and budgeting processes