Even though the terms long-range planning and strategic planning are often used interchangeably, they are really two quite different approaches to planning for the future. Here, in a nutshell, are the key differences as I see them:
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Long Range Planning |
Strategic Planning
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Linear |
Non-linear; asynchronistic
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Takes current programs and moves them through time, noting benchmarks along the way – essentially doing more of the same with no changes to program, budget or human resources |
Chooses programs to develop based on external and internal assessment
A key element of strategic planning is often change
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Can be as simple as a timeline
Usually goal approach focused
Can use a variety of tools to focus the goals: voting with dots, matrices, criteria lists |
Can use a variety of approaches to flesh out concepts and make choices: scenarios, critical issues, goals
Can use a variety of tools to focus these approaches: voting with dots, matrices, criteria lists
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Can be based on a single big idea, i.e. Refresh
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