Strategic Planning Overview
Why does a systems analyst need to know about strategic planning? The answer might
be found in an old story about two stonecutters who were hard at work when a passerby asked them what they were doing. “I am cutting stones,” said the first worker.
The second worker replied, “I am building a cathedral.” So it is with information technology: One analyst might say, “I am using a CASE tool,” whereas another might say,
“I am helping the company succeed in a major new business venture.” Systems analysts should focus on the larger, strategic role of IT as they carry out their day-to-day
responsibilities.
Strategic planning starts with a management review called a SWOT analysis. The letters stand for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. A SWOT analysis usually starts with a broad overview. The first step is for top management to respond to
questions like these: