A model for colleges of engineering to select a strategic planning methodology and implement a strategic planning process

Abstract

This research operationalizes the theory and recommendations from academic and business strategic planning sources. The desired research outcome is to improve academic strategic planning for colleges of engineering.

My contribution to the academic planning body of knowledge is a model to select a strategic planning methodology and implement a planning process for colleges of engineering. The model's design is based on the logical conclusion that choice of planning methodology should be matched to desired planning outcomes.

The model uses a preplanning instrument, a planning template, and a Gantt Chart. I designed the preplanning instrument based on six success/fail criteria identified from the research, desired outcomes and outputs of the planning process, and selected planning steps from the Virginia Productivity Center (VPC) Planning Methodology. Answers to questions on the preplanning instrument are then summarized on the planning template. The template requires the planner to consider the sequence of the selected planning steps and prepare an agenda to accomplish them. Finally, the model requires the scheduling of this agenda on a Gantt Chart. The Gantt Chart becomes a timetable for a plan to plan for the college of engineering.