In the context of strategic planning, a facilitator is an individual who guides the organization through the entire planning process, whether they are an external consultant or an internal team member. The facilitator plays a crucial role in ensuring that the strategic planning process is effective, inclusive, and results-oriented. They help identify the right question to ask, facilitate strategic planning workshops, and maintain focus and momentum towards achieving strategic objectives.
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Key roles and responsibilities of a facilitator include:

• Guiding the Process: Leading the organization through the strategic planning process, ensuring that each step is clearly defined and effectively executed.
• Identifying Key Questions: Helping the organization identify and articulate specialized questions that need to be addressed to develop a robust strategic plan. This includes understanding the organization's unique challenges and opportunities.
• Facilitating Workshops: Conducting strategic planning workshops to engage stakeholders, gather diverse perspectives, and foster collaborative decision-making. The facilitator ensures that workshops are productive, inclusive, and focused.
• Providing Expertise: Offering insights and best practices based on experience and knowledge of strategic planning methodologies. This helps the organization make informed decisions and adopt effective strategies.
• Maintaining Focus: Keeping the organization focused on its strategic objectives and ensuring that discussions and activities remain aligned with the overall goals.
• Encouraging Participation: Ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are involved in the planning process, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to the strategic plan.
• Monitoring Progress: Helping the organization track progress towards its strategic goals, providing ongoing support and adjustments as needed to stay on track.

Consultant or Internal Facilitator?

• Outside Consultant:
  • Objectivity: External consultants bring an unbiased perspective, which can help in identifying issues and opportunities that internal staff might overlook.
  • Expertise: Consultants often have extensive experience across various industries and can provide specialized knowledge and best practices.
  • Fresh Insights: They can introduce new ideas and innovative approaches that the organization might not have considered.
  • Focused Attention: Consultants are dedicated to the strategic planning process without the distractions of daily operational responsibilities.
• Internal Facilitator:
  • Organizational Knowledge: Internal facilitators have a deep understanding of the organization’s culture, history, and internal dynamics, which can be valuable in the planning process.
  • Cost-Effective: Utilizing internal resources can be more cost-effective than hiring external consultants.
  • Ongoing Support: Internal facilitators can provide continuous support and follow-up, ensuring that the strategic plan is implemented and adjusted over time.
  • Trust and Relationships: They may already have established trust and strong relationships with team members, facilitating smoother communication and collaboration.

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