In the last issue of T&B E-ssentials we introduced the question "What is a quality planning document?" We stated that every plan should have the same overarching purpose - to be implemented - and received feedback that our readers agree.  Great!  If you missed the last issue, see E-ssentials v3.2: Identifying Goals and Community Benefits for a discussion about how goal setting can better ensure that a plan will be put into action.

Organizing and Presenting Document Content

Another key consideration when writing a planning document is the organization of the information being presented.    There is nothing worse than a plan with clear goals, but which no one can comprehend but its authors.  A well written plan is understandable by a variety of audiences and presents an unambiguous path to action.  An exceptional plan also will be tailored to the issues at-hand and will not be a "carbon copy" of another community or project's plan.  No two communities or projects are identical and therefore, neither should be their plans. For a professional planner, the real fun of preparing a new plan is derived from being able to make the document stand out from all the others that have come before it.
 
When writing text, be clear, be concise and use language that reflects a call to action.  Avoid the temptation to "over-describe" concepts, excessively use modifiers, or write long, complex paragraphs that are difficult to follow. Additionally, graphic illustrations should clearly represent the "message" that is being delivered and corresponding text should properly describe the graphic.  

Above all, present information that is meaningful to your audience.  Although every plan must include a number of basic elements required by law, the presentation, organization, and structure of that information may be the difference between the plan being implemented, or gathering dust on a shelf.

Almost any planning firm possesses the ability to prepare an "acceptable" planning document. T&B Planning continues to be acknowledged for our ability to write clear, concise, and action-oriented plans that are tailored to the individual needs of our clients. 

Watch for the next issue of E-ssentials, which will further discuss the topic of quality planning documents and the importance of being clear and goal-focused.