Assignment:
Forecasting
It is far better to foresee even without certainty than not to foresee at all.
- Henri Poincaré, The Foundations of Science
All strategic ventures involve uncertainty, as it is difficult to ascertain what the future holds. By collecting and evaluating data from the past and present, analyzing trends, and making predictions about what is to come, leader-managers can help groups and organizations to mitigate the risk inherent in an uncertain future. This process, known as forecasting, is a critical part of strategic planning. It allows groups and organizations to identify potential challenges and opportunities for change.
This week, you examine forecasting, including how to identify appropriate sources of data and evaluate the literature to identify trends that may have an impact on nursing and health care. You consider how leader-managers can use forecasting to identify unmet needs.
Also this week, you preview the Course Project: Developing a Strategic Plan.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
• Analyze future trends in health care
• Analyze historical data and forecasts to identify opportunities for change
Identify topic for a culminating project