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A One-Page IT Strategic Plan...Is it Possible?

In this "quick and easy" world where everyone "wants it now" and wants it short and simple, we are often asked if a one-page IT strategic plan is possible. Well, yes it is possible, but we do admit to using both sides of the paper!  Here are a few tips on developing a "'One Page IT Strategic Plan":

• Just because it's one page, it doesn't mean you can skip the work. You still need to go through the same logic and thought process as developing a thorough comprehensive plan, but you can select the important components to summarize on one page.
• Be sure to include the key business drivers, and what impact it has on IT. Do not just include IT goals or principles without the business requirement that makes it important. For example, do not include common IT platitudes like "Scalable, maintainable", unless you identify the clear business requirement, such as global business growth, flexible business model to meet customer needs as the requirement for the key principles.
• Summarize the key strengths and opportunities in the areas of business applications, technical infrastructure, organization, and processes.  It is important to understand where you are as a foundation before you plan your future direction.  An objective and thorough assessment is the first step of this process.
• Identify the mission (Why does IT exist) and vision (What does IT aspire to?).

• Include key metrics, what the measurement for the metric is today, and what is the goal. This will help you measure progress and know when you have arrived. Specific metrics communicates what is important. Less is more - don't have too many metrics as that can confuse. Identify key metrics that will drive the behavior and instill accountability for results and optimum performance. Be sure you have metrics to measure efficiency (are you doing it well) as well as effectiveness (are you doing the right things).

• Identify the roadmap and projects in all areas of IT:  business applications, technical infrastructure, organization, and processes. Identify the projects planned for the next three years, not just the next year.

  

Contact us today for more samples, templates, and advice for your IT Strategic Plan!  Let us show you some examples of a one-page IT Strategic Plan that communicates the situation and direction in a concise and complete way.