Planning consists of a series of individual purposive decisions which follow a sequence or pattern. Each link is a series of actions performed so that a goal or objective can be reached.
For example: The family may have a goal of buying a new car. The goal will not be reached if the mother decides she wants a video set. In such cases, the chain is broken. There is no relationship between the goal of a new car and the impulse desire of a video set a saving programme and plans for a car trip would be more related. There are five basic steps in planning. They are
Recognizing the problem
Seeing the different alternatives
Choosing between alternatives
Acting to carry out the plan
Accepting the consequences
In each problem, we have to analyze and clarify the situation to be able to define the problem. In view of the problem relevant alternatives are seen and analysed in relation to the pros and cons. Not all alternatives to our particular situation. The selection of relevant alternatives for solutions to problems is based on facts- not just on emotions and impulses. This means thinking through ideas, being conscious of people, family and others. This way, the choice is narrowed down to two or three alternatives. In selecting the best alternatives, one has to consider what will be given up if any one of these alternatives is selected. This has to be decided before making the final decision. In planning, one has to essentially,
Balance between amount of available resources and the demands made upon it.
Ensure that the decisions made would be appropriate to the individual situations.
Make sure that plans are realistic and flexible.
If management is to achieve maximum satisfaction of living for a group, planning will be a group process. All persons who are affected by decisions and involved in group action need to be included in the planning and decision making process.
Participants