Long term planning is the key to an organisation’s success. This book provides an overview of strategic planning and implementation processes. It explores the importance of planning to small organisations along with major influences on strategy such as competitors and the industry environment. It examines the role of the chief executive, culture and politics in the design and implementation of a strategic plan. It also outlines key components of a strategic marketing plan such as mission, objectives, marketing mix strategies, measurement and review. It draws on current research and includes case studies from a variety of industries.