This final article in a three-part series on strategic planning focuses on implementation and continuous improvement at the mega level of planning. Topics include steps for a proactive and holistic strategic planning activity, linking strategic planning to operations, integration versus separation of functions, and organizing for synergy. (LRW)

Discusses strategic planning and describes three levels of strategic planning and thinking that can occur within an organization. Differences between reactive and proactive planning are explained, and a strategic planning model is presented that includes data collecting, planning, and implementation and evaluation. (10 references) (LRW)

Discusses the rapid growth and expansion of distance education programs and provides a framework for defining, planning for, and achieving useful results from distance education programs today and in the future. Describes the Organizational Elements Model (OEM) that includes planning, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. (Contains…

Elements of a program development model are discussed, including change requirements, maintenance requirements, and development of a problem-solving management plan (identify problems based on needs, determine solution requirements and identify solution alternatives, select solution strategies from among alternatives, implement solution…

Explains and differentiates among several types of needs assessment, recommends one type, the external needs assessment, and presents the steps for implementing this and other types of needs assessments. (Author/CHC)

Defines a basic framework for educational strategic planning that serves both learners and society. Discusses Mega Planning's critical success factors, common planning errors, and basic elements of scoping, planning, implementation, and continuous improvement/evaluation phases. Strategic objectives should drive curriculum objectives, and these in…

This book applies quality management, an organizational theory that has been successful in business and industry, to education. Chapter 1 describes the basic elements of quality management (QM)--continuous improvement, client satisfaction, positive return on investment, and doing it right the first and every time. Ways to implement Deming's 14…

The future of educational design, development, and improvement lies in integrating "how" with "what" and "why." Critical strategic thinking factors include abandoning comfort zones; focusing on ends, not means; linking all three planning and result levels; starting with an ideal vision; preparing measurable…