Planning is the systematic development of action programs aimed at reaching agreed business objectives by the process of analyzing, evaluating and selecting among the opportunities which are foreseen.

Planning

ORGANIZING

Achieving Objectives

CONTROLLING

LEADING

Planning is goal-oriented

Planning is an intellectual or rational process.

Planning is a primary function.

Planning is all-pervasive Planning function extends throughout the

organization.

Planning is forward looking.

Planning is a perpetual process. It is a continuous activity.

Planning is an integrating process.

Planning involves choice.

Planning is a prerequisite not only for achieving success but also for surviving in a competitive environment.

Organizations that plan in advance are more likely to succeed.

Focuses attention on objectives

Offsets uncertainty and riskPrimary and contingent plans

Provides sense of direction

Provides guidelines for decision-making

Increases organizational effectiveness

Provides efficiency in operations

Ensures better coordination

Facilitates control

Encourages innovation and creativity

Facilitates delegation

LEVELS TIME SCOPE

Top-level Long-term plans

Strategic plans

Middle-level Intermediate-term plans

Tactical plans

First-level Short-term plans

Operational plans

1. Analyzing opportunities

2. Establishing objectives

3.Identifying alternatives

4. Evaluating available alternatives

5. Selecting the most appropriate alternative

6.Implementing the plan

7. Reviewing the plan

Establishing the right climate for planning

Clear and specific objectives

Planning premises

Initiative at top level

Participation in planning process

Communication of planning elements

Integration of long-term and short-term plans

An open systems approach

Management information system

Lack of accurate information

Time consuming process

Expensive

Inflexibility

Resistance to change

Environmental constraints

Lack of ability and commitment

False sense of security

Reluctance to establish goals