Action Plan

What it is for

An Action Plan is a tactical sequence of concrete steps to achieve a specific result.

It is, essentially, the structure that turns an objective into executable work.

Use it when a goal is clear, but the path to execute it still needs to be organized.

An Action Plan helps you:

• Break a result into concrete, manageable steps
• Assign clear ownership and expected timing
• Keep execution visible and easy to follow
• Reduce ambiguity during day-to-day work

What it can contain

An Action Plan can include everything needed to move from planning to execution.

Targets Use Targets to define each actionable step. This makes progress measurable and avoids vague tasks.

Checklists Add Checklists when you need verification points, quality control, or repeatable procedures.

Programs and other planning items Link the Action Plan to broader structures when execution contributes to a larger initiative.

Attachments Use attachments for briefs, templates, references, instructions, and supporting evidence.

How to build an Action Plan

In practice, a good Action Plan is specific, simple, and easy to update.

1. Define the result you want to achieve.
2. Break it into concrete Targets that describe real actions.
3. Order those Targets in a logical execution sequence.
4. Add ownership and deadlines where relevant.
5. Include Checklists and attachments when process control is needed.

How to use this in practice

An Action Plan works best when it is treated as a living execution guide.

Review it frequently, update progress as work happens, and adjust steps when conditions change.

The clearer your steps are, the easier it is for the team to align, execute, and finish on time.