Drawing on the principles of systems thinking and complex adaptive systems, this course provides students with a complete guide for writing and implementing a strategic plan with special emphasis on the unique requirements of development in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In particular, the UAE’s extensive experience and special focus on long-range planning in various sectors, enabling it to become a competitive leader in the world, will be a highlight of this course. Developing mission and vision statements that communicate values and serve as a guiding force within an organization; framing new and flexible approaches for planning; comparing business, long-term, and strategic plans; and understanding the importance of formal and informal mandates will be addressed. Particular emphasis will be placed on effective strategy development specifically for complex and uncertain policy environments in the public sector.

Special topics are experimental courses announced as offered. Variable credit.