Randy Thomann says that while strategic planning is important, but there are pitfalls to avoid. (1) Be sure to invite the right people to the table, making sure not to assemble a chorus of clones. (2) Be sure the right number of people are involved, with neither too many (which can be chaotic) nor too few (which gives the impression that planning is a top-down exercise. (3) Don't forget God -- you're trying to discern God's agenda, so start with prayer.