The problems with plans
Posted by Danny Morris
November 1st, 2011 | No Comments »
Leaders can often become too wedded to plans. Consider the political bun fight going on between the government and opposition about making any changes to economic policy. Certainly having a plan at the very least gives people reassurance and a sense of direction but when should plans be adjusted or even abandoned? Why does it matter changing a plan?
General Eisenhower said, “Plans are dispensable, planning is indispensable.” The art of leadership involves improving planning capabilities and this includes nurturing an attitude of flexible thinking. Adjusting plans in response to a volatile strategic context is often necessary. The trick for leaders is to change tack whilst explaining (and explaining again) why you are doing so and also ensuring that all activity is being realigned to the modified plan.
Eisenhower shifted the date of D Day because of adverse weather conditions. What needs to shift in your plan?
