Strategic Planning for the Reproductive Health and Population

Strategic Planning for the Reproductive Health and Population Sector: An Introduction The Strategic Mindset

Learning Objectives Understand the distinction between strategic and non-strategic approach Define strategic planning

Session Outline Why be strategic? What is strategic planning? Why develop a strategic plan? Why is it important for the RH and population sector?

Strategic vs. Non-Strategic – Anecdotal – Analytical – Ad hoc – Systematic – Reactive – Proactive – Whimsical – Realistic

Why Be Strategic? Programs/sectors have to – Make trade-offs – Do more with less – Get the most “bang for the buck” – Adapt to changing situations

What Is Strategic Planning? Strategic planning is the process of determining what a sector intends to be in the future and how it will get there What/where Ho w Future Present

It is an ongoing process of…. Planning Strategic Planning Action Analysis

Why Develop a Strategic Plan? To improve performance To stimulate forward thinking and clarify future direction To reduce barriers to effective RH programs To make the best use of resources To influence rather than to be influenced

Why Is Strategic Planning Important for the RH/Population Sector? Dynamic and unpredictable environment HIV/AIDS Pandemic Competing Priorities Increasing literacy and awareness Reproductive Health/ Population Sector Declining donor support Increasing inequalities Health Sector Reforms • Decentralization • Alternative financing • Privatization