Objectives of programme planning are clearly depicted in the figure.
Effective progress Progress is most rapid when a plan of action is formulated and implemented. The results are fruitful and progress most rapid when careful and advance planning is done and effective teaching methods are used.
Proper direction In planning an extension programme, five major factors must be taken into consideration:
the reason for planning an extension programme
Discussion and Meeting of Rural People with Extension Workers regarding the importance of an Extension Programme
The characteristics and needs of beneficiaries of this programme.
The educational level of the beneficiaries
Source of information available
Uses of the programme
Effective learning A well developed plan of work gives guidance to the learning process. The direction of this effort can best be stated in terms of objectives stated and their attainment. Time is needed to think through problems, to study situations and to decide upon objectives and find solutions.
Planning precedes action Through the planning process, the following questions are posed:
What information do farm men & women need most.
Which kind of information shall be extended?
What information shall be extended first?
How much time be devoted to this line of work?
How much effort shall be devoted to this line of work?
The answers to these questions lie in the programme planning process.
Avoid wastage of resources Planning helps in minimizing the wastage of resources such as time, money, labour and other inputs and provides general efficiency.
Provides guidance Planning helps in clearly defining the objectives of the programme and proper path for attainment of these objectives and finally evaluating the results.
Continuity Since the plan is available in black and white, there will be continuity of the programme, even if change of personnel occurs.
Reliable Information The thorough analysis of the situation and bringing out facts reveal the true information required for programme planning and implementation.
Leadership Development The programme paves way for involvement of key persons in planning and execution of development programmes and thus is one of the best methods of leadership development.
Minimize Conflicts A good programme planning avoids unnecessary conflicts like conflicts of resources, personalities etc. as these can easily be removed at the planning stage.
Future programmes A good programme planning always identifies and monitors future development.
Best use of Innovations Programme planning paves way for the best use of latest technologies and techniques.