There are three core strategies that all good strategic plans contain:

• Defend the Core

• Grow the Base

• Create the New

Different words may be used to express the intent, but every strategic plan must be clear on the core products or services and defend their market positions.

Secondly each strategic plan identifies key areas of growth opportunity based upon changing market conditions.

And finally each strategic plan should carve out dedicated resources to create new products and services for the future.

Using these three strategies as an initial strategic plan template enables:

• Mission/vision/purpose development

• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

• Environmental assessment

• Strategy development

This results in an inspiring strategic plan rather than another binder on the organization’s shelf.