How do you handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning?

1 Identify the causes

The first step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to identify the root causes of the discrepancies or difficulties. You can use various tools and methods to analyze the data and information related to the plan, such as SWOT analysis, gap analysis, root cause analysis, fishbone diagram, or Pareto chart. These tools can help you to determine the internal and external factors that affect the performance of the plan, such as strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, needs, resources, processes, policies, or stakeholders. By identifying the causes, you can prioritize the most critical and urgent issues that need to be addressed.

2 Communicate and collaborate

The second step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to communicate and collaborate with the relevant parties involved in the plan, such as team members, managers, customers, suppliers, or partners. You need to share the findings and feedback from the analysis, and solicit their input and suggestions on how to improve the plan. You also need to establish clear roles and responsibilities, and set realistic and measurable expectations for each party. Communication and collaboration can help you to build trust and rapport, and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

3 Implement corrective actions

The third step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to implement corrective actions that can address the root causes and resolve the problems. You can use various tools and methods to design and execute the corrective actions, such as PDCA cycle, SMART goals, action plans, or Gantt charts. These tools can help you to plan, do, check, and act on the corrective actions, and monitor their progress and impact. You also need to ensure that the corrective actions are aligned with the overall goals and strategies of the plan, and that they are feasible and cost-effective.

4 Evaluate the results

The fourth step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to evaluate the results of the corrective actions, and compare them with the expected outcomes of the plan. You can use various tools and methods to measure and assess the results, such as KPIs, balanced scorecard, benchmarks, or surveys. These tools can help you to quantify and qualify the performance of the plan, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the corrective actions. You also need to document and report the results, and share them with the relevant parties.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to learn and improve from the experience, and apply the lessons learned to future plans. You can use various tools and methods to facilitate and enhance the learning and improvement process, such as after-action review, feedback loop, or kaizen. These tools can help you to reflect on what went well and what went wrong, and how to sustain and replicate the successes, and avoid and overcome the failures. You also need to celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of the parties involved in the plan, and motivate them to keep up the good work.

6 Adapt and adjust

The sixth step to handle performance gaps and issues in operational planning is to adapt and adjust the plan according to the changing needs and expectations of the stakeholders, and the evolving market and industry conditions. You need to review and revise the goals, strategies, and resources of the plan regularly, and incorporate the feedback and suggestions from the parties involved in the plan. You also need to anticipate and prepare for the potential risks and opportunities that may affect the performance of the plan, and develop contingency plans and scenarios. By adapting and adjusting the plan, you can ensure that it remains relevant and effective in achieving its objectives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?