This book contains theoretical background and provides information to assist administrators engaging in strategic planning for institutions of higher education. Strategic planning must be systematic; it involves choosing specific priorities and making decisions about short-term and long-term goals. Engaging key stakeholders in identifying priorities allows broad consensus building which results in enhanced accountability and ensures that a strategic plan will be used for guidance. The chapters are: (1) "A Changing Environment"; (2) "The Idea of Planning"; (3) "Organizational Culture, Paradigms, and the Fear of Change"; (4) "Leaders and Their Followers"; (5) "Overview of the Strategic Planning Process"; (6) "Laying the Foundation"; (7) "Clarifying Your Mandates, Core Values, and Mission"; (8) "Establishing a Vision for the Future"; (9) "Conducting a Situational Analysis"; (10) "Identifying Strategic Issues"; (11) "Developing Strategy"; (12) "Implementing the Strategic Plan"; and (13) "Conclusion." Chapters 6 through 12 outline the key steps in the strategic planning process. Nine appendixes contain supplemental information about resources and techniques for strategic planning. (Contains 14 tables, 36 figures, and 242 references.) (SLD)