SWOT Analysis
The program aimed at raising awareness of people on diabetes can have a significant impact on the healthcare system as well as the health situation in the USA. One of the major strengths of the program will be a decrease in the development of the disorder as people will be able to pay close attention to their lifestyle, their health, and possible symptoms (Johnson, 2012). There are some programs and websites providing information on the problem but they are still inconsistent and a far-reaching program with significant media coverage may have a positive effect.
Notably, the US government is paying more attention to the problem and allocates funds to similar educational incentives (Shi & Johnson, 2014). People also seem to pay more attention to the issue. Finally, researchers have discovered new ways of treatment, diagnosing, and prevention of the disorder.
At the same time, there are threats and weaknesses. However, they can be mitigated. The program requires allocation of funds but this should not be a burden for the federal or state budget as additional funds may be received from numerous charities. It is essential to obtain the necessary media coverage and the Internet (especially social networks) may help do that as the issue excessively discussed on the Internet eventually appears in media. Social networks will also help draw young people’s attention as they are major networks’ users.
SWOT Analysis and Strategic Planning
SWOT analysis can be used as a starting point of strategic planning for a health administrator. SWOT analysis reveals the basic challenges and opportunities of any project. This type of analysis is rather brief but very precise and comprehensive. It can help come up with an efficient strategy to implement a project.
First, strategic planning is impossible without a SWOT analysis. Strategic planning presupposes the use of strengths of the project and the ability to predict challenges as well as ways to overcome them (Bauer, 2014). SWOT analysis enables administrators to unveil possible challenges (internal as well as external). This is important for the development of tools to address the issues that are likely to arise or prevent problems from occurring.
As has been mentioned above, the SWOT analysis is a starting point of any strategic planning and it is also a basis and an effective checking point during the process of decision-making. An administrator may use the SWOT analysis to make a decision especially when it comes to changes in the project. Clearly, each project should be flexible as new circumstances appear and the administrator has to be ready to respond (Merlino, Omi & Bowen, 2013). A proper SWOT analysis often contains the vast majority of challenges to be addressed and this helps administrators develop the necessary responses to arising issues.
Finally, SWOT analysis also helps allocate funds more effectively. The administrator can allocate funds to facilitate the strengths of the program and mitigate certain weaknesses. The administrator can also effectively allocate funds to address the issues that are likely to arise during the implementation of the project. Hence, it is possible to conclude that a proper SWOT analysis is crucial for efficient strategic planning.
Administrator Interview Synopsis
A Summary of the Interview
The administrator interviewed works for quite a small organization. She reports that they have come up with a strategic plan for five years. This is quite a detailed plan with identified goals and terms. There are a number of major goals and several intermediate ones. The plan includes fund allocation that is quite preliminary and rather flexible. It is noteworthy that the plan includes people responsible for certain minor projects and the achievement of goals. Those are not names of particular people but posts and teams/departments.
The interviewee believes that strategic planning is of paramount importance for any organization and the pressure is quite high. The process is very challenging and it needs the involvement of all employees. The interviewee stresses that they do not have enough funds to hire an effective strategic planner from outside. Hence, they have to come up with the plan using their resources and experience. The head of the organization is responsible for the development of the plan, which is compiled after numerous discussions and meetings.
The interviewee stresses that SWOT analysis is often a basis of the plan as it includes major points. The analysis is held during a meeting where employees come up with ideas. Employees also complete certain research and provide insights on possible goals for the next five years, challenges, and ways to address them. The most challenging part for the interviewee and his colleagues, as reported, is making decisions on major and intermediate goals and potential challenges.
Synopsis
As has been mentioned above, strategic planning is a complex process that needs effective decision-making. Clearly, during the development of this plan, many goals and challenges may seem important but it is important to evaluate the relevance of each goal and each issue (Bauer, 2014).
Effective decision-making is especially important when it comes to resource allocation. Reaching every goal presupposes certain expenditure and it is essential to make sure that a sufficient amount of funds is allocated to achieve this or that goal. The modern world is highly competitive and companies cannot afford to spend too many resources. When it comes to the sphere of public health, tension is increasing as healthcare often lacks sufficient financial support. Hence, resources have to be allocated wisely and efficiently.
It is important to make sure that funds will cover the achievement of the necessary goals and there are enough resources to address challenges that are likely to arise. It is important to prioritize and make sure that relevant processes can be implemented effectively and on time. It is also necessary to remember about possible risks and problems that can occur. There should be a reserve where additional resources can be found if necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is necessary to note that effective decision-making is crucial for strategic planning when it comes to resource allocation. It can ensure the effectiveness of the plan and the success of the organization in reaching its goals. Of course, this increases the competitiveness of the organization as well. Companies have to pay specific attention to funds allocation and remember that the plan should be flexible as well as resource distribution. It is always important to remember that some additional challenges may occur and resources may be required to address these issues.
Reference List
Bauer, J.C. (2014). Paradox and imperatives in health care: Redirecting reform for efficiency and effectiveness. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press.
Johnson, T.D. (2012). Prevention and public health fund paying off in communities: Success threatened by cuts to fund. The Nation’s Health, 42(6), 1-31.
Merlino, J., Omi, J., & Bowen, J. (2013). Lean behavioral health: The Kings county hospital story. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Shi, L., & Johnson, J.A. (2014). Novick and Morrow’s public health administration: Principles for population-based management. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.