The plan that provides long-term direction and broad goals is called a:

• A. Tactical
• B. Operational
• C. Strategic
• D. Contingency

Answer: (C)

Long-term direction and broad goals come from strategic planning. A strategic plan outlines the agency’s mission, values, and the major outcomes it aims to achieve over several years, guiding how resources are allocated and how progress is measured. It provides a stable framework for decisions across departments and helps ensure that daily work aligns with the organization’s ethical standards and community expectations. In contrast, tactical plans focus on specific actions in the near term, translating strategy into concrete steps for particular operations. Operational plans concern the everyday routines and processes that run the organization. Contingency plans prepare for unexpected events or emergencies. By concentrating on enduring objectives and the big picture, strategic planning ensures coherence and integrity across the organization’s work.