Online Post Graduate Diploma in Business (DB 1101 – General
Management)
Assignment IV – Chapter (7)
Student Answer
1. Understanding Goals, Plans, and Planning
A goal is a desired future state that an organization attempts to realize. It provides direction
and serves as a target for employee efforts and organizational activities. Goals can exist at
different levels — strategic, tactical, and operational — and help to measure performance
and guide decisions. According to Daft (2021), effective goals are specific, measurable,
achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
A plan is a blueprint for goal achievement, specifying the necessary resources, schedules,
tasks, and actions to achieve the stated goals. Plans answer the 'how' question — how will
the organization reach its goals? Plans may include resource allocation, timelines, and
action steps for departments and individuals.
Planning is the process of determining goals and defining the means to achieve them. It is
the foundation of all other management functions (organizing, leading, controlling). The
planning process includes setting objectives, identifying resources, developing alternatives,
selecting the best plan, and monitoring progress.
Benefits of planning include providing motivation, guiding resource allocation, and
establishing performance standards. However, it may create rigidity and limit creativity in
dynamic environments.
2. Understanding Strategic Goals, Strategic Plans, and Strategic Planning
Strategic goals are broad, official statements describing where the organization wants to be
in the future. They are long-term in nature and developed by top management, reflecting
the organization’s mission and vision. Example: 'To achieve a 25% increase in international
patient volume by 2030.'
A strategic plan defines the action steps an organization will take to achieve its strategic
goals. It serves as a blueprint for allocating resources and identifying key activities that
support the overall mission. It often spans three to five years and includes policies,
programs, and performance indicators.
Strategic planning is the process through which organizations define their strategy or
direction and make decisions on resource allocation. It begins with the mission, focuses on
long-term direction, aligns all departmental goals, and remains flexible to adapt to new
challenges.
Modern strategic planning uses tools such as Strategy Maps, Management by Objectives
(MBO), Contingency Planning, and Stretch Goals to promote alignment and innovation.
Summary Table
Concept Definition Time Frame Responsibility Example
Goal Desired future Short/Long- All levels Increase
state term patient
satisfaction to
90%
Plan Blueprint for Varies All levels Implement new
achieving goals patient
feedback
system
Planning Process of Continuous All managers Developing
setting goals hospital-wide
and deciding annual plans
how to achieve
them
Strategic Goal Broad, long- 3–5 years Top Expand market
term management share in ASEAN
organizational
target
Strategic Plan Actions and 3–5 years Top Launch new
resource management hospital
allocations to branches
achieve regionally
strategic goals
Strategic Process of Ongoing Executives Develop
Planning formulating telemedicine
strategy to and e-health
achieve goals strategy
Conclusion
In conclusion, goals, plans, and planning form the foundation of effective management.
Strategic goals, strategic plans, and strategic planning provide the direction and framework
for achieving long-term success. Organizations that align all levels of planning—from
operational to strategic—are better equipped to handle change and achieve sustainable
growth.
References (APA 7th Edition)
Daft, R. L. (2021). Management (14th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Robbins, S. P., & Coulter, M. (2022). Management (15th ed.). Pearson Education.
Lee, J. (2013). Managerial Planning and Goal Setting. In Dr. Tin Tin Aye (Ed.), DB-1101
General Management, Chapter 7, Yangon University of Distance Education.
Drucker, P. F. (1954). The Practice of Management. Harper & Row.
Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2020). Strategic Management and Business Policy.
Pearson Education.
