This first step covers important elements such as the objective, steps, role and composition of the committee overseeing the effort, the role of the strategic planning team, the necessary resources and the significant limitations of the effort which showed that this was not clear. Otherwise, they would have had different results. Bryson (2011) highlights the importance of monitoring during the strategic planning process. “Strategic planning for a public or nonprofit organization, network, or community is especially likely to work well when an effective decision-making body is in place to oversee the effort” (p. 102) . In conclusion, developing an initial agreement before embarking on strategic planning is crucial as it highlights a clear understanding between key internal and external decision makers and leaders regarding overall planning and their