The action agenda, however, must begin with an in-depth examination of what processes will be retained and what must be done differently to achieve the vision, objectives, and goals put forth in the strategic plan. Tasks, timetables, budgets, and responsibilities must be clearly articulated. Developing a strategy-supportive budget that provides resources in critical areas is essential. The absolute amount of money is not nearly as important, as defining what needs to be done with it. Not long ago, I was working with a company that had done everything listed above, but had failed to adequately address how its employees were going to do what was needed.
Successful companies know how to do their work better than the competition.
For example, Starbucks has grown from one store in Seattle to over 2000 stores nationwide largely because it constantly attends to what it takes to execute its strategy proficiently. As the owner entrepreneur, your leadership provides the cohesion that joins planning with implementation. Every business plan ever written is a work in progress and implementation is part of the journey, not a destination. Linking planning and implementation can definitely make the road a lot smoother.