This entry is part [part not set] of 17 in the series Strategic Planning

Step One of Strategic Planning is Looking at the Past.

A quick or long look back will help frame the whole process. By getting a proper perspective on what has happened before, we may be able to either repeat the successes, build on them or avoid the failures of those that came before us. You need to be asking some questions about your school, team and environment that will be used in framing steps four and five.photo-album-640

  • What is the ED Tech history at your organization?
  • How quickly does the school embrace new technology?
  • Does your school fully embrace all aspects of technology?
  • What challenges were faced and how were they handled?
  • What have you learned through past changes?
  • Have they been through a transition in tech lately?
  • Did the group get dragged into the latest release begrudgingly? Why is that?
  • Did we have any major failure points in the past that might cause some to have concerns if you attempt something new?

When you start thinking about the you get a framework for the possible outcomes of your efforts today. You get a glimpse into how things were done before and what you might expect to happen in the future.

Just Ask

If you have a shorter history with the organization than others, go ask them these questions and make note of the answers. Talk to a few from differing areas in a casual manner in their office or over lunch. Don’t make this too official looking or you may just get the pat answers. Keep it light and comfortable, but ask a few “why” questions to go deeper. When done correctly, most people would not even know that this is part of your process of developing a strategic plan.

Do not be trapped by past efforts. If you hear the attitude, “We have never done that before” and just give up, not much will get accomplished. If you hear that concern, you know you need to plan on how to get past the naysayers to make progress.

The Product of this Step:

  • A good narrative, a written list or mental understanding of what has happened in the past, how you got there, what you learned and what you would avoid in the future.
  • A general understanding of the challenge in front of you and the beginning thoughts of how you might do better next time.

Who’s Involved:

  • Your Tech Team
  • Select staff you interact with in a casual manner
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