Posted By Ian G Hutchings
Hi Darren

Much of the answer does depend on the business, industry etc. etc. I would also advise that SHE professionals do not write strategy in isolation. The starting point is really an open discussion/workshop with the board.

I normally consider:

- vision (where do they want SHE to be in 1, 3, 5 years time; are they happy just to comply or do they want to excel);
- what are the key steps (no more than five) to achieving this vision;
- what are the business implications (time, effort, cost, resource) is it worth it?
- RACI (responsibility, accountability, consultation, informed as to what happens when and by whom);
- how aligned is the SHE goal with the overarching business strategy (should be integral not separate (i.e. SHE strategy helps you to achieve x, y and z business objectives in terms of business, risk reduction and cost benefit).

I believe this process can take some time and needs to involve key decision makers to buy-in to the general scheme and direction. Not a "Darren please go away and write the strategy" and then "that's great Darren, now hurry along and do it". This doesn't work and will place SHE outside the core business goals.

Does that help? Let me know if you are looking for something else.

Cheers

Ian