Is strategic planning relevant to non-governmental universities; Experiences from Islamic Azad University, Iran

AbstractStrategic planning in turbulent and changing environments is always in debt. The aim is investigating application of strategic planning models to a great non-governmental university over Iran. Methodology was a R&D in two phases (a- comparative research for reviewing experiences of other universities through the world and b- designing and developing a comprehensive model relevant and fit for the circumstances of non-governmental universities in Iran. The strategic planning team involved key stakeholders like groups of managers, staff and also graduate student's representatives via Focus Discussion Groups to develop important organizational identities as well as strategic components; Mission, Values and Vision