Some strategic decision support systems, however, are too sophisticated, expensive, or restrictive to be used easily by managers in a firm. This is unfortunate because the strategic-management process must be a people process to be successful. People make the difference! Strategic-planning software should thus be simple and unsophisticated. Simplicity allows wide participation among managers in a firm and participation is essential for effective strategy implementation.
One strategic-planning software product that parallels this text and offers man- agers and executives a simple yet effective approach for developing organizational strategies is CheckMATE (www.checkmateplan.com). This personal computer software performs planning analyses and generates strategies a firm could pursue. CheckMATE incorporates the most modern strategic-planning techniques. No previous experience with computers or knowledge of strategic planning is required of the user. CheckMATE thus promotes communication, understanding, creativity, and forward thinking among users.
CheckMATE is not a spreadsheet program or database; it is an expert system that carries a firm through strategy formulation and implementation. A major strength of CheckMATE strategic-planning software is its simplicity and participative approach. The user is asked appropriate questions, responses are recorded, information is assimilated, and
results are printed. Individuals can independently work through the software, and then the program will develop joint recommendations for the firm.
An individual license for CheckMATE costs $295. More information about CheckMATE can be obtained at www.checkmateplan.com or 910–579–5744 (phone).
The Web site www.strategyclub.com has become a leader in the world in providing strategic planning software, products, and services. This Web site provides the strategic Management Club Online as well as excellent economical software both for students and for business persons worldwide.