August 14, 2012

Differences Between Strategic Planning And Operational Planning

Following are the differences between strategic planning and operational planning:

1. Time horizon

Strategic planning looks ahead several years. So, it is long-term planning. Operational planning involves one year or even less. So it is short-term planning.

2. Level of management

Strategic planning is done at higher level of management. It decides major goals and policies. Operational planning is done at lower levels of management. It decides the details about the use of the resources.

3. Degree of details

Strategic planning is less detailed because this planning is not involved in day-to-day operations. Usually it is simple and generic. Operational planning is more detailed because it is involved with the day to day operation of the organization.

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4. Degree of uncertainty

Strategic planning is generally based on long-term forecasts about technology, political and legal environment. So, it is ,ore uncertain. Operational planning is generally based on the past performance. So, it is less uncertain.