Planning
is the process of deciding in advance what is to be done, who is to do
it, how it is to be done and when it is to be done. It is the process of
determining a course of action, so as to achieve the desired results.
In other words, Planning
is a process which involves anticipation of future course of events and
deciding the best course of action. It is a process of thinking before
doing.
The effectiveness of formal planning is primarily based upon clarity of objectives.
Objectives
provide a direction and all planning decisions are directed towards
achievement of these objectives. Plans continuously reinforce the
importance of these objectives by focusing on them.