Foreword.

THE BOARD'S PERSPECTIVE ON STRATEGIC PLANNING.

Benefits of Strategic Planning.

The Board's Responsibility for Strategic Planning.

Examples of Strategic Planning from the Board Perspective.

The Language of Planning.

PREPARING FOR STRATEGIC PLANNING.

Plans for Planning.

Effective Planning Meetings and Retreats.

Using Consultants and Facilitators.

Examples of Boards Preparing for Strategic Planning.

Action Steps: Preparing for Strategic Planning.

CONDUCTING STRATEGIC PLANNING.

Clarifying the Mission: Purpose and Values.

Exploring Internal and External Environments.

Identifying the Critical Issues.

Articulating a Vision.

Examples of Strategic Planning Outcomes.

Action Steps: Conducting Strategic Planning.

FROM PLANNING TO ACTION.

Putting Together the Strategic Plan.

Creating Operational Plans.

Action Steps: Strategic and Operational Plans.

KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PLANNING.

Principles of Successful Planning.

Final Tips.

Resources.

A. Often-Heard Objections to Strategic Planning -- and Replies to Them

B. A Sample Consulting Plan.