More and more I am convinced of the impotance of a sense of purpose and guiding values, a clear and described vision, and areas of focus - and how when you have these in place how much easier it is to make decisions.  The strategic plan must be a living document and not once that gathers dust on a shelf somewhere.  For boards, a strategic plan can provide a framework for making a real difference.

Does your strategic plan need a make-over? 

I have just returned from a tramp in Mt Taranaki, Egmont National Park.  It has become our tradition to walk somewhere in NZ in the week leading up to Christmas.  It is a great way to avoid the piped music in the malls, and crazy frenetic last minute shopping. I enjoyed the outdoors and recharged the batteries.

Have a wonderful Christmas and all the best for 2010.

When I recently worked with Hawkes Bay school trustees, we explored how schools could be restructured to enhance student achievement.  I suggested reading an article by Prakash Nair entitled "Don't Just Rebuild Schools - Reinvent Them", click here. You can also find a video on their website, click here .