Abstract
The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of various factors influencing the development of strategic planning in selected community colleges. Four research questions were addressed: (1) What are the factors working for the development of strategic planning? (2) What are the factors working against the development of strategic planning? (3) What are the general characteristics of strategic planning organization and facilitation? and (4) What are the general characteristics of management efforts utilized in the development of strategic planning? A descriptive-comparative case study design was employed utilizing a structured interview questionnaire. Four California community colleges were identified by a panel of experts. Studies of factors influencing the development of strategic planning in the four institutions were developed through a review of the literature, interviews with staff members in each case, and institutional planning document review. The following conclusions of this study are: (1) Strategic planning should be approached and developed on a holistic basis. (2) A plan-to-plan should include a staff development program. (3) Steering committee consensus should be reached regarding the purposes and goals of the strategic planning effort. (4) Strategic planning technical systems should be developed with steering committee input. (5) Institutional health and readiness for change should be researched prior to strategic planning initiation. (6) A plan for demonstration of district commitment should be developed. (7) Procedures should be developed that involve and inform every member of the staff and allow meaningful input. (8) Unlimited time should be allowed for strategic planning development processes. (9) Options generated through strategic planning should be seriously considered and acted upon in order to strengthen strategic planning credibility.