Each "strategy project" is tailored to client circumstances and objectives.

• What is the "business model" today and what is the business model of the future?
• Is the Company properly organized (ownership, management, people, systems, policies) to deliver this business?
• Is the Company executing effectively (costs, services)?
• How can the financial performance be optimized?

Senior management all need to be involved with the planning process. The overall process must be probing and inclusive to get the ideas flowing and the buy-in for later implementation. The rollout of the plan down through the organization has to be well communicated and tied to departmental operational plans (see next section).

The foundation of the strategic plan needs to be data-driven:

• Market Size and Growth Patterns
• Industry Structure and Attractiveness
• Competitor Market Share and Market Position
• Competitor Strategies
• Marketing Channels
• Distribution Channels
• Customer Needs
• Financial Condition/Constraints
• Understanding the Industry Value Chain