One of the best ways for strategic planning professionals to stay informed of industry news is to subscribe to strategic planning publications. There are many trade journals, newsletters, magazines and books on strategic planning. But rather than inundate yourself by subscribing to them all, you may want to pick and choose the ones that best meet your business's needs.

Where some strategic planning publications are very limited and cover specific topics, others give an overview of the whole industry and offer a variety of resources. The trick is to get the most information out of the fewest resources, thus saving you money and keeping you well informed without consuming all your valuable time. When choosing a strategic planning journals, magazines and books, remember the following:

1. Some magazines about strategic planning offer free trial subscriptions you can take advantage of.

2. When subscribing to publications, find out what period your payment covers. Make sure you receive any back issues within the time period you're paying for. Some publications may just begin subscription with the current issue.

3. Order your strategic planning magazine directly from the website, if possible, or you may miss out on subscription perks.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Subscribe to strategic planning magazines and take advantage of the perks

Many publishers offer discounted pricing with subscriptions, in addition to other perks. Check to see if they offer free trial subscriptions or copies. You may even be able to cancel your subscription without payment or penalty if you are not absolutely satisfied.

I recommend: Strategy+business offers a free trial issues for industry professionals to review prior to purchasing. Success Magazine offers discounts on publications and provides successful business strategies, such as time management and goal setting.

Take advantage of online publications on strategic planning

E-mags and web publications have evolved for the better, and there are many benefits to taking advantage of them. Not only are they readily available, the medium also allows publishers to compliment articles with multimedia resources. You may be required to sign up as a member, but that can be an added bonus. It might get you access to free sample copies, or access to journal archives.

I recommend: Leadership Strategies is produced by Briefings Publishing Group. You can download a sample copy of this publication and access other industry newsletters. Strategy Magazine offers strategy-sponsored supplements and a careers board, in addition to other online resources.

Join a professional association for access to strategic planning articles and newsletters

If you work in strategic planning, you may consider becoming a member of an association for strategic planning professionals. As a member, you'll receive access to free publications, as well as other informational resources. If you sign up as a business, you can extend these services to your employees as well.

I recommend: The Association for Strategic Planning and the Strategic Management Society are both associations that offer industry publications to members. Additionally, members receive access to additional industry tools and resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with your local library for publications, as many subscribe to online databases that include strategic planning books, journals and magazines.