should also be considered. Action planning is a stages approach: Clarify goals, and ensure they are SMART Link back to your objectives and tactics Set criteria for success Prioritize Set timings Determine who will complete each action point Monitor the progress of the plan and review regularly An example action plan is shown below Measurements, controls and reporting The final stage of the action plan is the implementation of measurements and controls and reporting results. Many models for monitoring the performance of businesses have emerged, many of which address the needs of key stakeholders and allow them to evaluate the overall success of a company. The balanced scorecard approach for monitoring company performance The balanced scorecard approach is a widely used method of monitoring overall performance and ensuring daily work is focused on the strategic objectives. The scorecard is a "strategic planning and management system...which is used to align business activities to the vision and strategy of the organization, improve internal and external communications, and monitor organization performance against strategic goals". This approach encourages open communication throughout the business and allows tracking of performance throughout the year. Reference: http://www.balancedscorecard.org Traditionally, businesses have tracked success based on just one measure -- financial results. However the scorecard system views the business from four external perspectives to gain a more relevant approach to performance metrics. Learning & growth -- how you are innovating and improving to meet your goals Business process -- how critical processes are measuring up Customer perspective -- usually measured