ABSTRACT
Strategic thinking in government is highly controversial. Some believe that it is a substitute for strategic planning and management, the shortcomings of which have led to bad decision making. Others believe that strategic thinking can complement strategic planning: one method correcting shortcomings of the other. Still others believe that strategic thinking is the natural evolution of strategic planning. Many see them as distinct, while others see strategic thinking as a tool in strategic planning. This entry sorts out the debate on what strategic thinking is and how it relates to strategic planning. Strategic thinking generally employs a set of tools, frameworks, or methods that allow thinkers to escape the blinders the typically guide their thinking. In so doing, they are able to better solve problems, launch innovations, and take advantage of opportunities. It tends to focus on short-term horizons. It thrives on chaotic, data-poor situations. It encourages risk taking, and breaking the mold of thinking that has gone before. Strategic thinking as a discipline concerns thinking about thinking. A question to ask is: is strategic thinking in government even possible, given its constraints?
