Evaluation of the implementation of strategic planning in a public university: barriers, facilitators and effectiveness

Although advertised as providing benefits to organizations, strategic planning is struggling on its implementation in complex and dynamic environments, such as the higher education institutions. However, there are factors that facilitate this deployment, helping organizations achieve effectiveness. In this context, this paper aims to assess the strategic plan implemented at a Brazilian Public University. In addition, we sought to identify barriers and facilitators, as well as the extent of the effectiveness of strategic planning. Therefore, semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers of the institution who work directly with planning. The number of participants was defined based on the theoretical saturation technique. Among the most significant barriers to the implementation of strategic planning are the gaps in communication between the internal units and the lack of concordance between what is planned and what is done. The support of top management was featured as an important facilitator to the process. Finally, we concluded that strategic planning is feasible and beneficial to the University, but.the effective deployment was not detected in all sectors of the institution.

Key words: Strategic planning; University management; Public university