In line with the goal developed, the emphasis in preparing the plan was on developing practical strategies and getting ownership of the plan from the outset through widespread consultation and input at all stages. The approach adopted reflects the planning team’s broader experience, including previous experience over a number of years in a wide range of roles and projects in Samoa, draws on more general planning principles and was designed to meet the specific needs of Samoa. In many respects it might be labelled a ‘question asking’ approach, with the principal sets of questions being ‘what are the key issues facing tourism in Samoa?’ and ‘how might these be best addressed? Preparation of the plan was undertaken in three phases between August 2001 and January 2002.