Why strategic plans still matter (even in a fast-changing world)

By Tatev Avagyan January 30, 2025

These days, everything seems to center around AI and predictions about how it will reshape the software development industry - and humanity as a whole. Yet, I still believe having a strategic plan matters (at least for now!)

When I was just starting my career, the idea of a strategic plan felt too strict, like something that would lock a company into a fixed 3-5 year path. More often than not, these plans ended up being just plans, that would only be revisited at the end of the year to see how reality measured up against expectations. This approach led many entrepreneurial minds to question the necessity of strategic planning, preferring to rely on instinct and adaptability instead.

On the other hand, there were systematic thinkers - those who believed strategy should drive every decision rather than the other way around. But over the past two decades, that mindset has been challenged too. The pace of change forces us to constantly adjust to global shifts that may already be outdated by the time we fully embrace them. Even those who once advocated for long-term planning now hesitate.

Then, there's the middle ground - where I find myself. I believe a strategic plan is essential, but it shouldn't be a fixed document; rather, it should be a living guide. Unlike a traditional rulebook, a good strategy should be adaptable, regularly updated to reflect both external and internal changes (including those gut feelings we all rely on from time to time). It should keep us focused on our goals - yes, even those that evolve over time - and align our actions toward achieving them.

Think of it as floating in a vast ocean. Without a plan, you drift aimlessly. With a strict plan, you risk crashing into unexpected obstacles. But with a flexible plan, transparent communication, and an aligned team, you can navigate the waves effectively, adjusting course when needed while still heading toward your destination.

Why I believe in formalized strategic plans

Even though strategies evolve, I still find tremendous value in formalized planning (just because they have worked so far). For me, having a structured approach allows me to:

  • Clear my mind. Writing down ideas, plans, and objectives in a strategic document prevents mental overload. It keeps me focused, clear-headed, and determined to actually work on things.
  • Communicate effectively. A well-structured strategy makes it easier to explain the company's direction, outline action plans, and explain key decisions to the team - ensuring alignment across the organization.
  • Prepare for the future. A solid plan doesn't just serve me today; it also provides a roadmap for my successor - because leadership transitions are inevitable.

P.S. As we, at Team Solutions, dive into our strategic planning for the upcoming year and beyond, I wanted to share these thoughts with my team - and perhaps with others who find themselves in the same boat.