Strategic management involves formulation and implementation of major goals and initiatives by top management based on assessments of internal and external environments. [DOCUMENT] outlines the six key steps to effective strategic formulation: 1) define the organization, 2) define the strategic mission, 3) define strategic objectives, 4) define the competitive strategy considering industry, competition, and strengths/weaknesses, 5) implement strategies through tactical actions, and 6) regularly evaluate progress against the strategic plan and make adjustments based on changes in the business environment. Strategic formulation provides a framework for actions to achieve anticipated results but requires flexibility to adapt the strategic plan to changing market conditions.