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SSTI Releases Strategic Planning Report

The State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) recently released State Science and Technology Strategic Planning: Creating Economic Opportunity. This report is the first comprehensive study of state science and technology strategic planning processes.

Prepared under a grant from the Economic Development Administration, Creating Economic Opportunity describes the key factors that contribute to the successful development and implementation of state science and technology strategic plans.

The study found there were ten best practices for successful strategic plans:

  • The planning process had a champion
  • The process was structured to obtain a wide range of viewpoints
  • The strategy articulated a vision for the state's future and was based on a thorough understanding of the state's industry and technology resources
  • The strategy was designed to benefit all areas of the state, including distressed areas
  • The strategy was built on existing delivery systems
  • The strategy addressed the key elements needed to support technology-based development
  • The strategy included performance measures related to specific outcomes
  • The strategy included a detailed implementation plan assigning responsibilities and timelines
  • The strategy was tied to the state budgeting process
  • Strong leadership was provided to oversee implementation of the strategy over the long-term.

The report also reviewed the means by which state science and technology strategies are addressing the needs of distressed communities and disadvantaged populations. The review of science and technology strategic planning suggests that benefiting distressed areas has not been a priority for state technology initiatives. The report includes recommendations for the states and the federal government on leveraging science and technology investments to benefit distressed areas.

In a detailed appendix, the report identifies and examines state strategic plans adopted between 1991 and 1995.

To obtain copies of this report or for more information, call 614/421-SSTI (7784) or order from SSTI homepage: www.ssti.org. The first copy of the report is free. Additional copies are $10 each.