1. Title of Paper
“An investigation of strategic planning models in the Irish Higher Education Sector”

2. Outline Abstract Background to the research Strategy definition
Methodology
Literature Review
Results & Findings
Conclusions

3. Methodology Mixed method approach
Positivist & Phenomenological research
Main sources used:
Interviews n=20
Institutional self-evaluation reports
External panel reports
Strategic plan of each HEI
Books & journals

4. Literature review Environmental Scan (IPEST) SWOT analysis
Porters Five Forces Framework
Ansoffs Growth Matrix
Delphi Technique
Lenses
Rational Planning - Intended strategy
Emergent Strategy
Foresight Planning
Scenario Planning
‘De-facto’ strategy

5. Results & Findings External consultants
7/14 Institutes of Technology (IOTs)
2/6 Universities
Predominant models
6/14 (IOTs) Rational model - Experience
2/14 (IOTs) Scenario Planning
1/14 (IOTs) Foresight Planning
1/6 Uni – Rational Planning – Experience
3/6 Experience
No model !

6. Conclusions Unsure about the concept of strategic planning models
Insufficient attention placed on selection of appropriate model
Alternative models not often looked at
Rational Model is the most prominent
Limited use of Ansoff, Porter, Delphi
Limited use of strategy as ‘ideas lense’
Overuse of ‘strategy as experience’ lense
Reliance on external consultants
Introduction of more innovative types of strategic planning necessary

7. Thank You
Any Questions???