I began to hear the debate about the value of strategic planning during my short engagement as an interim executive at an Internet company. When I joined the company in 1999 it was post-IPO and growing fast, primarily through acquisitions. I was one of the “grey hairs” they hired to inject some experience and sustainability. [...]

Far too often, teams and entire organizations embark upon a path toward a goal without an encompassing strategy and plan that aligns with culture. Structure and processes may exist. Roles and responsibilities are defined. Success criteria are established. But without an honest and accurate assessment of current reality, a shared purpose that everyone can articulate, [...]