Mintzberg (C3 - Planning)

Question 1

Concept

Answer 1

Basic premise;

“predict and prepare”

take the SWOT model, divide it into delineated steps, articulate each of these with checklists and techniques, give special attention to the setting of objectives and budgets.

Question 2

Process

Answer 2

1. quantify the goals of the organisation
2. assess external environment, competitor analysis (forecasting, checklists used for external factors)
3. assess internal environment (distinctive competencies)
4. strategy evaluation - ROI calculations, risk analysis etc.
5. strategy operationalisation - strategies broken down into substrategies and programs for implementation.
6. scheduling

Question 3

Formulation

Answer 3

objectives -> strategies -> programs -> budgets and control

1. strategies result from a controlled, conscious process of formal planning.
2. responsibility lies with the CEO in principle. responsibility for execution lies with staff planners in practise.
3. strategies emerge full blown, to be made explicit so that they can be implemented through objectives, budgets, programs and operating plans.

Question 4

Criticisms

Answer 4

Forecasting unreliable

Assumes stability

Detaching thought from action on formulation through relying on hard data

Failure of formalisation - assumption that systems perform better than human beings.

Planning is not strategy making.