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Professional Skills: Strategic Planning

Arizona State University via Coursera

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Overview

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Learn how to anticipate change, evaluate options, and develop high-impact strategies. This course helps professionals think critically and plan confidently for future scenarios using tested frameworks and data-informed insights. This course empowers learners to prepare for uncertainty and make decisions with confidence. Through scenario planning, SWOT analysis, and logical modeling, this course teaches how to analyze data, challenge assumptions, and shape outcomes. Whether you're leading an organization, team, or personal project, this course gives you the tools to build resilient, actionable strategies for real-world problems.

Syllabus

Scenario planning via case studies

In this module, you will delve into the foundational aspects of strategic thinking by exploring scenario planning through the lens of case studies. You will learn how to analyze past events and current trends to identify causes and resources, perform in-depth case studies to extract valuable insights, and practice applying these techniques to real-world situations. This module will equip you with the skills to understand complex scenarios and derive actionable intelligence for future planning.

Outthinking potential problems

This module focuses on developing your ability to anticipate and mitigate potential problems before they arise. You will learn to identify the causes and resources related to emerging issues, analyze major issue factors, and map axes of uncertainty. By understanding how to proactively identify and assess risks, you will be better prepared to navigate complex challenges and ensure more resilient strategic outcomes.

Evaluating possible scenarios

In this module, you will gain proficiency in evaluating various possible scenarios using strategic analytical tools. You will learn to conduct a comprehensive SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to assess the viability and implications of different future possibilities. This module will enhance your decision-making capabilities by providing a structured approach to scenario evaluation.

Developing strategies

This module focuses on the critical process of developing robust and effective strategies. You will learn how to form strategies based on core values, ensuring alignment with organizational principles and long-term goals. Through practical exercises, you will gain the skills to articulate and implement strategies that are not only innovative but also deeply rooted in a clear understanding of purpose and values.

Course conclusion

This concluding module includes an end-of-course survey to gather your valuable feedback, ensuring continuous improvement of our educational offerings, and marking the successful culmination of your strategic thinking development.