Resource: Strategic Planning - Components of a Strategic Plan

Strategic plans typically include:

• A vision statement that defines the community's aspirations,
• A mission statement that defines the government's role and purpose,
• A SWOT analysis that identifies the community's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats,
• Focus areas and goals that align with the vision and mission,
• Action items to achieve the goals and objectives,
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress and evaluate the plan's effectiveness,
• A budget and resource allocation plan to support the implementation of the plan.

Vision Statement

A vision statement is a concise declaration of your agency or community's desired future state.

A vision statement should be aspirational and motivational, articulate your core values and purpose, and be easily understood by all stakeholders.

Some examples of vision statements include:

• "Our vision is to sustain and enhance North Palm Beach as the 'best place to live under the sun' through superior services, small Village character, and quality amenities." - North Palm Beach, FL
• "Our vision is for the City of Bedford to remain a vibrant, transformational community." - Bedford, TX
• "Our vision is to embrace progress while respecting El Mirage's grand heritage." - El Mirage, AZ
• "Our vision is to prepare Global-Ready Graduates." - Eagle County School District RE 50J

Mission Statement

A mission statement is a brief statement that defines your agency's purpose, priorities, and values. It explains what your agency does, who it serves, and what it hopes to achieve.

A vision statement should be concise, memorable, and inspiring, reflect your agency's values and priorities, and be easily understood by all stakeholders.

Some examples of mission statements include:

• "Our mission is to work together to strengthen our premier community."- Montgomery, OH
• "Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life through leadership, partnerships, and the efficient delivery of outstanding service to our diverse community." - El Mirage, AZ
• "Our mission is to provide exemplary municipal services in a collaborative and transparent manner while honoring the public's trust." - Waco, TX
• "The mission of Metroparks Toledo is to conserve the region's natural resources by creating, developing, improving, protecting, and promoting clean, safe, and natural parks and open spaces for the benefit, enjoyment, education, and general welfare of the public." - Metroparks Toledo, OH

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis helps your agency evaluate your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT). 

• Strengths are the internal attributes that if your agency an advantage over your peers. For example, you may have a strong financial position, a talented and dedicated workforce, or a supportive community.
• Weaknesses are also internal attributes that hinder your agency's ability to achieve your goals. For example, you may have outdated infrastructure, limited resources, or process inefficiencies.
• Opportunities are external factors you can capitalize on to achieve your goals. For example, you may the opportunity to improve your transportation infrastructure, reduce your environmental footprint, or enhance your career and technical education programs.
• Threats are external factors that could negatively impact your ability to achieve your goals. For example, you may be hindered by changes in regulations, economic downturns, or a global pandemic.

Focus Areas

Focus areas are broad statements about the desired outcomes for the community and how it will get there, providing a high-level vision of what your organization hopes to achieve. Focus areas are often cross-functional.

Some examples of Focus Areas include:

• Ensure financial stability
• Enhance the quality of life
• Promote educational and workforce opportunities
• Improve environmental sustainability
• Promote and protect historic resources

Goals

Goals are specific and measurable steps your agency will take toward your focus areas.  They should also begin to take into account the resources and capabilities of your agency.

Some examples of goals include:

• Clean up roadways and expand biking and walking options.
• Maintain and enhance space for community groups, cultural groups, and community functions, and provide space at a cost within reach of these groups.
• Improve the City's reputation by directing resources towards enhancing the community's aesthetic appeal, making it more inviting to visitors, potential residents, and businesses.
• Continue, expand, and refine community events and opportunities to reflect and embrace diversity.

Action Items

Actions Items are specific activities assigned to one or more departments, boards, commissions, committees, or private organizations. Action items will often have an associated timeframe.

Examples of action items include:

• Develop a clearinghouse of information regarding existing venues, both public and private, that are available for use, including the venue’s capacity and equipment.
• Establish partnerships with community organizations that promote inclusive programs and activities for individuals with disabilities.
• Investigate and plant tree species that will thrive in warmer climates expected in the near future.
• Design and implement school/department wellness plans to address the needs of students and staff.

Key Performance Indicators

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are specific, quantifiable metrics used to measure your agency's performance against its goals and objectives. KPIs provide a way to track progress and determine whether you are achieving your desired outcomes.

Some examples of KPIs include:

• The number of new businesses, jobs created, or economic output in the community
• Monthly crime statistics
• Community survey results
• Student achievement scores or graduation rates

Budget & Resource Allocation Plan

A Budget & Resource Allocation Plan outlines the financial resources required to achieve your agency's goals and objectives and provides a framework for allocating those resources to various programs and initiatives. 

A budget and resource allocation plan should include: 

• Revenue projections: Estimates of your agency's expected income, including funding from various sources such as taxes, grants, and fees.
• Expenditure projections: Estimates of your expected expenses, including personnel, operational, and capital expenses.
• Resource allocation: A plan for allocating resources, including funding and personnel, to specific programs and initiatives that support your agency's goals and objectives.
• Performance measurement: Indicators that will be used to track your agency's progress and performance and to ensure that resources are being used effectively and efficiently.