The initiator can be a catalyst to frame the issue and initiate organized action. A core group made-up of the initiator and key community leaders develops a list of potential stakeholders with diverse backgrounds, interests, and leadership. The core group brings all stakeholders together to establish the Action Team. The Action Team defines the issues and establishes its operating guidelines. Once organized the Action Team can develop a strategic plan to guide its future.
Planning is fundamental to successful implementation of projects from conception to completion .
Planning is the systematic problem solving process to determine the best approach to solve a problem or take advantage of an opportunity. The plan then guides the Action Team to implement the project. The Action Team uses a basic nine steps planning process. The process integrates social, economical and environmental issues to meet community needs. This approach, which emphasized desired future conditions, will improve sustainability of communities, minimize conflict and address problems and opportunities.