Long-Term Vision Plan
We will live in a fast paced world and from the look of it it's speeding up. The need for velocity is at an all time high. The internet moves lighting fast. New businesses rise at unprecedented rates, while behemoth institutions crumble because they couldn't keep up with the times. What was once new is now old and outdated in a matter of months. The lure of chasing the shiny ball is a daily battle and the notion of long-term planning seems outdated.
In today's business landscape we find ourselves asking - When is it safer to switch strategies verse staying put and sticking to the game plan? Is testing and iterating the answer for everything? Is sticking to a long-term strategy short-sighted?
The Long-Term Vision Plan
My recommendation is to build and stick to a long-term plan that helps you achieve your vision. Your final destination will take time to reach. There will be bumps in the road. New technologies will change your industry. You can count on downturns in the economy. But none of these shifts and changes should steer you off course from actualizing your vision over time.
Let's say for example that the vision for your company is to be the leader in your space; the most recognized brand in the industry. You know that you will need the most talented team in the industry. You also know that as a leader you will need to provide products/services at the highest level to your clients/customers. Your vision has nothing to do with whether or not Facebook is more popular than Snapchat or if the housing market crashes. Your job is to keep pushing toward your north star. You need to plan for the long-haul taking into account that there will be some bad and good years ahead. Of course you need to be in the know regarding new trends and shifts. Your business may even require you to be cutting edge, but again it all leads to the same destination - the manifestation of your vision.
Go forth and plan for the long-term. Win daily battles. Gain ground. Achieve your VISION!