Manage Operational Plan

Manage Operational Plan
Assessment Activity 1
Describe the purpose of the operational plan and describe its relationship to the strategic plan.

An operational plan is an organisational planning document derived from the strategic plan. The strategic plan provides a high-level outline of the organisation’s mission, general direction and broad goals and the operational plan is a detailed document that outlines how the organisation’s strategic goals will be achieved in practice.
The operational plan outlines what actions teams or individuals within the organisation will take to achieve its objectives and outlines any major projects identified for the relevant time period. The operational plan identifies risks and incorporates contingency plans. An operational plan may forecast actions for a period of 3 or 5 years. When the plan is for a period of years, it usually contains an annual breakdown making it easier to evaluate progress against the plan.

Assessment Activity 2
Outline some of the tools that can be used for formal consultation and discuss their various merits.
Formal tools for consultation include:
• Information sessions o Information sessions allows for a greater understanding regarding the need for change, how the change will occur and the role that the individuals or teams will need to undertake. These sessions also provide increased commitment, agreement and staff morale.
• Invitations for submissions from stakeholders o There are several key benefits of including stakeholders in your decision-making process. Stakeholders have unique insight into issues. They can secure resources to assist you with your decisions or project. Involving stakeholders can build trust, which can ultimately lead to increased consensus for your project or final decision. It can also increase transparency and lead to better decision making.

• Meetings, workshops, focus groups, one-on-one interviews o All of the above forms of consultation allow for a

References: http://humanresources.about.com http://www.mindtools.com http://www.inc.com/guides/201107/how-to-write-an-operational-plan-for-your-small-business.html Personal Reflection Undertaking the Diploma of Management has provided me with new knowledge regarding the development of an Operational Plan and the correlation with both the Strategic Direction and the working team and individuals. The module on ‘Manage Operational Plan’ has allowed me to reflect on previous planning undertaken when in management roles and the importance of having feedback mechanisms that effectively measure the performance of the organisation. Without adequate planning with appropriate stakeholders a business cannot sustain their competitive edge and maintain position in the market. Lack of planning and measuring of success has seen many businesses flounder and fold. During this process I have been reminded of the need to plan and monitor performance at all levels to ensure the ongoing success of the business, team and individuals. I have gained increased understanding of planning methods from reviewing both the text provided and researching other works through publications and the internet. I enjoy being part of the planning process as it allows reflection on the business and increases your ability to think laterally to implement the best possible measurements to benefit the team and the organisation.