---
title: 1 Question to Test Effective Strategic Plan Development
description: 1 Question to Test Effective Strategic Plan Development
---

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# [1 Question to Test Effective Strategic Plan Development](https://www.brainzooming.com/blog/1-question-to-test-effective-strategic-plan-development)

 Written by [Mike Brown](https://www.brainzooming.com/blog/author/mike-brown) | Aug 2, 2017 9:50:22 AM

Is there such a thing as a quick check to determine [whether a strategic plan is on the right track or not](https://www.brainzooming.com/smiling-throughout-a-strategic-planning-process-yesssssss-its-possible/28034/)?

While reviewing mini-strategic plans attendees developed at a recent logistics company customer event we facilitated, I relied on one that works well.

We designed a group exercise for participants to identify strategic plan topics. We also provided an overview with instructions about how to write a mini-strategic plan. Each mini-plan section featured one or two questions to help guide small groups in their work. Each of the six groups had fifteen minutes to complete the front and back of a mini-plan. As they worked, we roamed among the six groups to answer questions and provide guidance.

### 1 Question to Test Effective Strategic Plan Development

I was familiar with the starting topics and trigger events, but did not have close knowledge of the conversations each group had to develop its mini-strategic plan. Beyond looking for good structure and form in each mini-plan, I repeatedly asked a strategic thinking question that is valuable for anyone writing or reviewing any type of plan:

#### *If I had to implement this, would I know what to do?*

This simple [strategic thinking question](https://info.brainzooming.com/the600questions) helps you quickly identify:

- Whether the plan provides enough detail
- If the [words (and especially the acronyms used) are understandable](https://www.brainzooming.com/5-advantages-of-strategy-statements-with-simple-language/26065/)
- Whether the steps (or tactics) follow one another in an order that makes sense
- How complete the path is to lead to the stated goal or objective
- How faithfully the steps carry out the stated strategy

In the Brainzooming world, we think highly of a single [strategic thinking question](https://info.brainzooming.com/the600questions) that works that hard, shedding light on five key areas in creating an effective strategic plan.

Tucking this question away for the next time you are writing or reviewing a strategic plan will lead to a more complete plan with simpler, straightforward language offering a better opportunity for successful implementation. – *[Mike Brown](https://www.brainzooming.com/?page_id=1197)*

## <https://info.brainzooming.com/fun-strategy-ideas>[11 Ideas to Make a Strategic Planning Process More Fun!](https://info.brainzooming.com/fun-strategy-ideas)

### Yes, a strategic planning process can be fun . . . if you know the right ways to liven it up while still developing solid strategies! If you're intrigued by the possibilities, [ download our FREE eBook, "11 Fun Ideas for Strategic Planning."](https://info.brainzooming.com/fun-strategy-ideas)

### [Enjoy this article? Subscribe to the free Brainzooming blog email updates.](https://info.brainzooming.com/email)

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