Can you share some strategic planning funny stories?
Well, here's a story. A startup was doing strategic planning and their big idea was to sell ice - cream in Antarctica during winter. They thought it would be a unique market. But they completely overlooked the fact that there were hardly any people there during that time, and the extreme cold made it very difficult to even set up a stall. Another story is about a company that planned to use carrier pigeons for communication in their new rural office as part of their 'unique' strategic plan. Needless to say, it didn't work out as expected.
One funny strategic planning story is about a business that wanted to expand globally. Their strategic plan involved opening stores in every country in alphabetical order. So they started with Afghanistan and then Albania. But they soon realized that some of these countries had very difficult economic and political situations that they hadn't fully considered in their initial plan. Another example is a tech company that during strategic planning decided to develop a product for people who are afraid of technology. Their plan was full of contradictions as they were using high - tech methods to reach those who were anti - tech.
Can you share some strategic planning success stories?
Toyota also has a remarkable strategic planning success story. Their 'Toyota Production System' was a strategic move to optimize manufacturing processes. This involved concepts like just - in - time production and continuous improvement. By streamlining production, reducing waste, and focusing on quality, Toyota was able to produce high - quality cars efficiently and gain a competitive edge in the global automotive market.
Can you share some risk appetite strategic planning success stories?
One success story is Apple. Their risk appetite in terms of product innovation was high. They were willing to invest heavily in R&D for new products like the iPhone. Their strategic planning involved continuous improvement and anticipation of market trends. This led to a huge success as the iPhone revolutionized the mobile phone market and became a dominant force in the tech industry.
Can you share some funny estate planning stories?
Sure. There was a man who left his entire estate to his cat. He had a detailed plan for the cat's care, including a trust fund for food, vet bills, and a luxurious cat condo. Another story is about a woman who left her antique spoon collection to be divided among her neighbors. But she had so many spoons and specific instructions that it led to some comical disputes over which spoon was the rarest.
What are the most interesting strategic planning funny stories you know?
A company planned to launch a new line of shoes for people with 12 toes. They did all the market research, product development, and strategic planning around this. But they later found out that the number of people with 12 toes was extremely small. Another story is that a business made a strategic plan to have a delivery service using hot air balloons in a city. They didn't take into account the weather and air traffic regulations.
Can you share some more funny wedding planning stories?
Sure. A couple planned to have a fairy - tale themed wedding. They ordered a huge Cinderella - style glass slipper as a centerpiece. However, it was so big that it took up half of the table. Guests couldn't stop joking about it during the reception.
Can you share some planning horror stories?
There was also a city planning horror story. A new highway was being planned to relieve traffic congestion. However, during construction, they discovered ancient ruins that halted the project. This led to years of legal battles between the construction company, the city, and heritage protection groups. The traffic congestion only got worse during this time.
Can you share some event planning horror stories?
Sure. One horror story is when the venue double - booked. We had everything ready for a corporate event, the decorations, the catering, and even the guests were arriving. But suddenly, we were told the place was already occupied. It was a nightmare trying to find a new place at the last minute and re - arrange everything.
Can you share some succession planning success stories?
Another example is General Electric (GE). GE has a long - standing succession planning process. They identify and develop talent from within. For instance, Jack Welch groomed Jeff Immelt as his successor. Immelt took on the role and led GE for many years, although the company faced different challenges over time. But the fact that there was a smooth transition initially shows the effectiveness of their succession plan. Succession planning at GE also involved cross - functional training and exposure to different aspects of the business for potential successors.
Can you share some financial planning success stories?
There was a single mom who was in debt. She decided to take a financial planning course. She learned about debt consolidation and started paying off her high - interest debts first. She also started a side hustle. In a few years, she not only cleared all her debts but also had a nice savings account for her child's education.
Can you share some positive family planning stories?
Sure. A family planned to have three children spaced out over a few years. They did this so that they could give each child individual attention during their crucial developmental years. The eldest was able to help with the younger ones as they grew up, creating a strong family bond.