Systematic planning offers a rational approach to solving the problems of providing education. Four fundamental principles are basic to an understanding of the concept of systematic planning. First, it should relate to all aspects of educational decision-making at all levels. Second, it is a multiphased operation involving establishment of goals, assessment of needs, development of objectives, generation of alternative strategies, selection of strategies, formulation of program implementation plans, securing and allocation of resources, and the operation and evaluation of the program. Third, it is best depicted as a cyclic process--once entered into, it provides a permanent, workable mechanism for meeting problems as they develop. Finally, reliable, up-to-date information is central to the process. (Author/PGD)