An operational plan is a plan that specifies details on how overall objectives are to be achieved. Short-term plans are plans that cover less than one year. Long-term plans are those that extend beyond five years. Under the category of specificity, we have specific and directional plans. Specific plans are plans that are clearly defined and leave no room for interpretation.
Directional plans are flexible plans that set out general guidelines.
Under the category of frequency of use, we have single use and standing plans. Single use plans are one-time plans that are specifically designed to meet the needs of a unique situation. Standing plans are ongoing plans that provide guidance for activities repeatedly performed in the organization. As managers go up through the levels of the organization, their planning role becomes more strategy-oriented. The greater the environmental uncertainty, the more plans should be directional with emphasis placed on the short-term.